Editor, RE: “RwandAir’s largest airbus arrives in Kigali” (The New Times, December 2). What could be more satisfying for Rwandans and friends of Rwanda than the news of the arrival of RwandAir’s brand new and largest airbus “Umurage” from the A 330-300 series? Any new arrival is always greeted with much fanfare and celebration. No wonder, therefore, this new aircraft was greeted with a spectacular water salute upon its arrival at the Kigali International Airport. But celebrations apart, this new arrival heralds the fact that the spotlessly clean City of Kigali is now well poised to become the regional aviation and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) hub in the EAC. Air transportation and hotel accommodation are two key factors in developing any new market from a tourism perspective. Rwanda has provided a perfect blend of these two vital facilities in the tourism development cycle and the increased air seat capacity has been effectively complemented with an enhanced room inventory. In today’s highly competitive world, innovation is the name of the game. Rwanda constantly and effectively innovates—be it with tourism products or services as well as with good governance, ease of doing business and even with zero tolerance to corruption. All these factors, coupled with a robust and stable government, gives this great nation the cutting edge and makes her a glowing example of service excellence. Clarence Fernandes
