WESTERN PROVINCE NYAMASHEKE— A new Frw4 billion eco-tourism lodge is to be constructed in Bushekeli sector and will be built by the Rwanda Office of Tourism and National Parks (ORTPN). According to Minister of Commerce Protais Mitali, the hotel, at a cost of Frw3.996 billion, will be one of the most ‘unique’—and expensive—hotels in East Africa. Twenty-five villas, including presidential, tea, and forest villas will dot the Southern Province hillsides, where driver’s, worker’s and all will also have quarters. Mitali, together with ORTPN director Chantal Rosette Rugamba, laid a foundation stone at the site and was given a tour of what will be by late April 2008 a major tourism landmark. The construction, being carried out by ROKO Construction Company, began on July 27. Mitali also said that construction of a hotel of this standard was in line with administration programmes to decentralize the gentrification of Rwanda. Participants and residents around the area were urged to increase agricultural-production as the new facilities would increase industry and commerce in the area greatly. Handicrafts, and bead-work were also encouraged. Other commerce with potential tourists, though begging was discouraged. Vice-mayor in charge of social affairs Catherine Gatete applauded the federal tourist agency and the government in general for taking such an initiative. “I stand on behalf of the district management and the entire Nyamasheke residents to thank our government, particularly His Excellency Paul Kagame, for having chosen to build such a wonderful hotel in this district.” The function was also attended by the RDF Commander in both Rusizi and Nyamasheke districts, Brigadier General Wilson Gumisiriza, Colonel Benison Rutikanga, the RDF Commander in Nyamagabe District, Nyamasheke District Police Commander, Superintendent Wilson Ntaganda, among others. Ends
