This newspaper on Saturday published a story about an emerging industry in Rulindo District: cultural tourism. According to World Tourism Organisation, cultural tourism accounts for 37 per cent of global tourism, underlining its importance. In Rwanda’s case, Nyanza is more known as the country’s hub of this form of tourism. But if what this newspaper observed at the newly constructed Ikirenga Cultural Centre in Rulindo is anything to go by, Rulindo is out to give Nyanza a run for their money. Lying along the Kigali-Musanze highway, the cultural centre takes visitors on a captivating journey into Rwanda’s history and cultural heritage, with enriching depictions of the exploits of King Ruganzu Ndoli II, one of Rwanda’s most celebrated kings of the 16th century. The facility is already a major source of livelihood for many residents from particularly Rusiga Sector where it is located with some employed at the centre, while others make products and sell them at a gift shop at the centre. Residents shared testimonies of how the cultural centre is transforming their lives, enabling them to not only cater for their daily needs but also take their children to school and start income-generating activities. And this is just the beginning, more is in store. According to the district authorities, the current facility is just the first component of the envisaged facility, with the second and third construction phases scheduled in the near future. The district says it wants to ensure the centre showcases the outstanding deeds of some of the country’s kings, as well as the specific history of Rulindo. This is a step in the right direction. Other districts that have yet to identify and move to exploit their potential should do the same. Tourism is just one of the many areas that present immense opportunities to residents and the country at large. Local government authorities, particularly at the district level, should take the lead in turning their areas revenue streams for the country. There is need to revive district investment groups where they existed but have since got cold feet, and to set them up where they do not exist. These private investment vehicles would mobilise resources toward the development of respective districts, including maximising the potential of every district of Rwanda.
