Increased tourism in Akagera
Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda has recorded over 20 000 visitors for the 2011 year, a substantial 35% increase on 2010 visitor numbers.
The national park, long regarded as one of Rwanda's unrealised tourism jewels, received a record number of 20 657 visitors and generated over $ 400 000 in tourism revenue during 2011. The growth in tourism receipts coupled with the steady increase in visitor numbers means that Akagera is well on track to becoming economically self-sustaining within the next 5-7 years. The fact that 50% of visitors to the park are Rwandan citizens also demonstrates the extent to which Akagera has become a source of national pride within Rwanda.
Akagera Management Company - a joint partnership between the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks – assumed management of Akagera in 2010 in terms of a 20-year mandate. During 2011 Akagera Management Company made substantial improvements to the park, including the development of new road networks, the maintenance of existing roads, the development of new signage and maps and the introduction of boats for lake-based tourism activities.
During 2012 emphasis will be placed on the erection of a 120km boundary fence along the western boundary which is due to commence this month and which is designed to reduce wildlife-human conflict around the park. Akagera Management Company will also commence the roll out of its Tourism Development Plan this year, with initial developments including a day visitor's centre at the entrance to the park and a new tented camp within the park, the first of its kind in Rwanda.
For further information, contact:
Sarah Hall
Tourism Development and Marketing Manager
Akagera National Park
P.O. Box 1448
Kigali
Rwanda
Tel: +250 782 166 015