Hoteliers body seeks to mend fences with local authorities

Rwanda Hotels and Restaurants Association (RHRA) has come up with an initiative to open up dialogue between hoteliers and local authorities before steps are taken against their businesses.Dubbed ‘Mayors Forum’, the initiative is expected to bring together district mayors to discuss a wide range of issues that will also include what local authorities expect from the businesses in order to improve their business.“We want to forge this cooperation to mainly avoid abrupt closure of hotels, restaurants and bars without prior talks on the cause of closure,” said the association’s chairperson, Dennis Karera. He pointed out that at least closing a business should be the last option.He explained that through this forum hoteliers will get feedback from the leaders on how better to improve their services.“This does not mean that there will no longer be any more closure of restaurants or hotels, but it will actually bring about proper coordination to even take tougher measures against owners who persistently ignore to abide by the minimum standards,” he said.The forum is expected to meet at least three times a year to discuss and devise means of proper implementation of government policies that will effectively contribute towards promoting the hospitality industry.Kigali City Mayor, Fidel Ndayisaba, welcomed the initiative, saying it will help both parties to coordinate, especially in ensuring that those in the business operate in line with the city administration plans.“With this forum, we shall be able to share or give information that will help us in developing the city in terms of providing services,” Ndayisaba said.He pointed out that in the past, some restaurant and hotel operators had not been on good terms with local authorities owing to a number of issues.Ndayisaba pointed out that among others; local administrators were concerned with hygiene in the facilities, security and parking space, as well as protecting the rights of neighbours or other residents.

National

Hoteliers body seeks to mend fences with local authorities