Kigali has once again been ranked the second most popular city in Africa for hosting international association meetings, according to the 2024 International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings. Rwanda also secured third place among African countries. ICCA noted that Rwanda’s consistent ranking among the top destinations for association meetings underscores its growing reputation as a reliable and preferred host for global events. Several factors contribute to this success, including Rwanda’s visa-on-arrival policy for all nationalities and RwandAir’s expanding network, which

Kigali has once again been ranked the second most popular city in Africa for hosting international association meetings, according to the 2024 International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings. Rwanda also secured third place among African countries. ICCA noted that Rwanda’s consistent ranking among the top destinations for association meetings underscores its growing reputation as a reliable and preferred host for global events. Several factors contribute to this success, including Rwanda’s visa-on-arrival policy for all nationalities and RwandAir’s expanding network, which ensures strong regional and international connectivity. “Additionally, Kigali is home to some of Africa’s leading MICE venues. Facilities such as the Kigali Convention Centre, BK Arena, Amahoro Stadium, and Intare Conference Arena provide ideal spaces for large-scale conferences and events,” the statement read. ALSO READ: Kigali Shines as a Global Meeting Hub: Major Events and Summits of 2024 Complementing these venues is a vibrant and expanding hospitality sector, featuring renowned international brands such as Radisson Blu, Four Points by Sheraton, Marriott, One&Only, and Singita, along with upcoming additions like Mövenpick and Odalys. Beyond business, delegates are drawn to Rwanda’s unique attractions—from trekking to see mountain gorillas, to spotting the Big Five in Akagera National Park, and exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage—making it more than just a meeting destination. In 2024, Rwanda’s tourism revenue grew by 4.3% to reach $647 million, driven by a 27% increase in gorilla tourism income and an 11% rise in air travel, according to the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) Annual Report. The report also revealed that Rwanda hosted over 52,000 delegates for meetings and events in the same year, generating $84.8 million in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) revenue. Of these, more than 17,000 attended international association meetings, including the FIA Annual General Assembly, ICANN 80 Policy Forum, the International Network for Government Science Advice Conference (INGSA), and the Africa Food Systems Forum, among others. “We are pleased to see Rwanda and Kigali continue to be recognized among Africa’s leading destinations for association meetings. These results reflect the efforts of various stakeholders in the events industry and the confidence international associations place in Rwanda as a preferred host. These rankings motivate us to further enhance our support and offerings for global events,” said Janet Karemera, CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau. This year, Rwanda will also host the ICCASkills Hub, which will launch in Kigali with two professional training programs: the Certified International Convention Specialist (CICS) course from July 15–17 and the Certified International Convention Executive (CICE) course from October 14–16. RDB aims to exceed $700 million in tourism revenue in 2025.

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