New York, 24 April 2018
The documentary film “Rwanda: The Royal Tour” premiered this Monday in Chicago, followed by screening at the legendary Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York this Tuesday evening. The evening was attended by President Kagame accompanied by First Lady Jeannette Kagame. Also present was the documentary’s creator, Peter Greenberg, CBS News Travel Editor. The two engaged in a question-and-answer session with the audience after film’s screening.
The film features Greenberg’s weeklong travels through Rwanda, led by President Kagame showcasing the visual diversity that Rwanda has to offer. Together, the two went gorilla trekking through Volcanoes National Park, jet-skied in Lake Kivu, explored Nyungwe Forest National Park on an elevated canopy walkway, and saw a variety of wildlife during a safari through Akagera National Park.
In addition to being lauded for its natural attractions and wildlife – Rwanda is one of only three places where travellers can see the world’s 880 remaining mountain gorillas in their natural habitat – the country is also recognized as one of Africa’s most exciting new luxury travel destinations. Indeed, Rwanda is witnessing exponential growth in its tourism revenues – from $200million in 2010 to above $400 million in 2016.
Addressing a packed house at the Guggenheim, President Kagame noted that: “I am pleased to have had the opportunity to be Peter Greenberg’s guide in this film, and to show a wider audience what Rwanda has to offer.”
President Kagame went on to say, “the goal of tourism and conservation in Rwanda is not only to increase visitor and revenue numbers but also to ensure that the benefits are both sustainable and shared by all our people.”
Greenberg noted, “What an amazing transformation Rwanda has had as a country, and what a special opportunity for me — and my audience – to see Rwanda through the eyes of its President.”
“Rwanda: The Royal Tour” premieres in Rwanda this Friday, 27 April 2018, at 19:00hrs on Rwanda Television.