Let's all embrace 'TemberuRwanda' drive to spur local tourism industry

Editor, RE: “Rwandans urged to visit tourist attractions” (The New Times, September 30). Every corner of Rwanda has a piece of history, especially in a culturally rich country like Rwanda, which is sadly one of the last frontiers of culture handed down through generations in Africa. Visit other African countries and see the wreck that “modernization” has had on local cultures. The following are my suggestions that I think could improve the #TemberuRwanda initiative: Develop cultural products in collaboration with mayors/districts: I would ask Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to work closely with each of the 30 districts to develop a cultural tourism marketing strategy, while the districts and RDB form a true partnership in tourism promotion. Rwanda is geographically small and has the advantage of each district being able to learn from the other districts. Imagine having to enjoy several days at Lakes Muhazi and Mugesera, then visit the legendary cow rearing plains of Nyagatare (during which you would drink plenty of milk), visit Akagera National Park and the famous Gahini East African Revival religious tourism church in Gatsibo/Kayonza, then visit Rusumo Falls in Kirehe, the fish farms in Ngoma District in Lakes Bilira, Mugesera and Sake, then enjoy some more days and enjoy a meal of fresh fish in Rumira, Mirayi, Kirimbi and Kidogo in Bugesera District…and all this in Eastern Province alone. Raise cultural history awareness in schools and tertiary institutions: I would urge RDB to consider engaging the Ministry of Education and Rwanda Academy of Language and Culture in coming up with booklets on such history that can be distributed to schools to ensure such history is preserved. In addition, these students are the consumers of tomorrow’s domestic tourism. I wish to challenge all of us to enjoy the #temberurwanda initiative. Kigali Girl

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Let's all embrace 'TemberuRwanda' drive to spur local tourism industry