Rwanda is among other countries represented at the exhibition that runs from Tuesday 7th March to 9th March at Messe Berlin.

Rwanda is represented by Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Rwanda’s national airline, RwandAir, Akagera Aviation and the Tourism Chamber in Private Sector Federation (PSF) among others.

The Head of Tourism and Conservation Department at RDB, Ariella Kageruka has said that participating in the trade fair is of great significance as it presents an opportunity to increase Rwanda’s visibility.

The Rwanda Development Board is delighted to be back at the ITB Tourism Fair in Germany where we got an opportunity to engage with members of the private sector in the tourism sector,” she noted.

In collaboration with Rwanda’s embassy, Kageruka the exhibition was an opportune moment to interact with travel media and travel trade for B2B event and a cultural show of Rwanda.

“We look forward to continue engaging with our stakeholders to continue promoting the country’s destination and increase partnership with travel players from around the world, especially from Germany and the rest of Europe,” said Kageruka.

The Director General of the Rwanda Chamber of Tourism at the Private Sector Federation, Frank Gisha emphasized that the exhibition presents unique opportunities for Rwandans.

“This is an exciting year as we came with a large number of members totaling to 19. We normally work with RDB to coordinate such exhibition along with other key partners. Seven of our members met with travel companies and were glad for the experience. This year, they are discussing how tourism can be turned into a sustainable business. Most of our visitors are eager to visit Rwanda,” he revealed.

Habba Hadijah Kamwesiga representing RwandAir explained that participating in the exhibition served as a platform helping them to interact with partners and hear concerns of the airline’s clients.

RwandAir recently announced plans to commence flights to Paris in France.

Kamwesiga further stated that the airline has been serving clients in different destinations in Africa and Asia among others with plans to continue enriching their experience.

Jeanne Ndatirwa dwelling in Berlin who attended the exhibition said that she was impressed by Rwanda’s participation.

“Visit Rwanda has become popular and we are glad to be represented here. Most importantly, we were given enough space to showcase our country’s attractions,” she noted.

Apart from RDB, 19 more companies from Rwanda that participated in the trade fair include RwandAir, Africa Journeys, Amahoro Tours, Gerry Tours-Safaris, Wilderness Rwanda, International Tours and Travel, Primate Safaris, International Travel Agency, Destination Rwanda, Jambo Tours and Fine Safaris Afrika.

Mist Rwanda Safaris, Silver Bird Tours, Palast Tours & Travels, Heritage Safaris Ltd, Kingfisher Journeys, Akagera Management Company, Akagera Aviation and Intore Expeditions and Business Tours have also participated.

The trade fair is expected to attract exhibitors from over 60 countries across the world and 160,000 visitors.

The Head of Tourism and Conservation Department at RDB, Kageruka Ariella taking visitors through Rwanda's attractions.

Kageruka explained Rwanda's efforts to promote tourism.

A cultural show was held to entertain participants of the exhibition who attended B2B interactions.