How Rwanda’s tech ecosystem is fueled by a thriving events sector

Rwanda’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) sector has emerged as a driving force in the country’s tech ecosystem, leveraging innovation to position itself as a premier destination in Africa — as the global sector is slowly recovering to pre-pandemic levels.

The recently released Rwanda Convention Bureau’s (RCB) 2023 annual report highlights the remarkable growth and resilience of the industry, generating over US$95 million in revenue with over 160 events hosted and an estimated 65,000 delegates, representing a 48% increase from the previous year, 2022’s growth performance. 

According to the International Congress and Convention Association’s 2023 rankings, Kigali is Africa’s second-most preferred city for international events. As Rwanda gears up to host several high-profile tech events in 2024, TechGyant analyses the role of technology in propelling the MICE industry, boosting the digital economy and building upon a thriving tech and innovation ecosystem.

Digital Transformation: Enhancing Destination Marketing for Tech Events

Chaired by Fred Swaniker, one of Africa’s leading entrepreneurs and technology leaders, the Rwanda Convention Bureau, now in its tenth year of establishment, has leveraged technology for destination marketing and promotion to effectively showcase Rwanda’s unique selling points for hosting tech-focused events. The bureau’s active participation in international platforms like ICCA, IAPCO, UFI, and SITE showcases its commitment to leveraging digital outreach and lead generation strategies.

Through these channels, the RCB has engaged with potential clients, industry stakeholders, and technology companies, ultimately driving business opportunities and positioning Rwanda as a preferred destination for tech events such as the Africa E-Governance Conference, African Law & Tech Network Summit and Africa Digital Innovation Summit in the first quarter of 2024.

Elevating Creative Arts and Tech Talent through Digital Platforms

Rwanda’s efforts to elevate the creative arts industry through events like the Trace Africa Music Award and Festival and Move Afrika by Global Citizen provided a global stage for local artists and tech talent. Digital platforms, social media, and live-streaming technologies amplified these events, enabling worldwide reach and facilitating cross-cultural exchange.

These events served as platforms for skill development and training, leveraging technology to empower and uplift local talent fostering a vibrant tech and creative ecosystem in Rwanda. As the country prepares to host events like the Inclusive Fintech Forum and Norrsken Africa Week, which focus on FinTech and startups, integrating digital platforms and innovative technologies will be key in showcasing local talent and facilitating meaningful connections within the tech community.

Fostering Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement within the Tech Community

The report showcases the positive impact of the MICE sector on local tech businesses, including hotels, restaurants, Professional Conference Organizers (PCOs), and transportation services. Digital communication tools and project management platforms have facilitated seamless coordination and information exchange among industry players, fostering a collaborative and inclusive ecosystem.

The RCB’s online resources and digital platforms have provided a central hub for stakeholders to access relevant information, guidance, and support, further enhancing collaboration within the tech community. The country will also host to events like the Africa Energy Expo and Hanga Pitch Fest, which bring together various stakeholders from the energy and startup sectors, so digital tools will play a key role in facilitating networking, knowledge-sharing, and forging new partnerships.

Embracing Innovation for Future Growth in the Tech Ecosystem

As Rwanda looks ahead to hosting major local and international tech events in 2024, such as the Inclusive Fintech Forum, Mobile World Congress (MWC) Kigali, the Digital Earth Summit, Africa Energy Expo, Norrsken Africa Week, Hanga Pitch Fest, and Africa’s Business Heroes Summit & Grand Finale, the integration of cutting-edge technologies will be crucial for the MICE industry to remain competitive and provide exceptional experiences for event organizers, attendees, and the broader tech ecosystem.

By embracing innovation and leveraging digital solutions, Rwanda’s MICE sector contributes to the country’s economic growth, nurturing an environment that supports the tech community’s development, addressing global challenges, and creating a positive impact. Rwanda’s proactive approach to leveraging technology positions it as a trailblazer in the African MICE and tech landscapes, setting the stage for continued growth and success.