How Rwanda Reinvented Itself
02/25/25 • 22 min
Many westerners associate Rwanda with the brutal genocide that overtook the country 30 years ago. But since then, Rwanda has made a huge investment in tourism — building new infrastructure, museums, music venues, and more. Now, it’s one of the most popular destinations in Africa. In this episode: Rwanda’s rebirth, how tourism has changed the country, and why this compelling narrative is more complicated than it appears.
SHOW NOTES:
- How to rebrand a country
- Mighty Popo’s KigaliUp Festival
- Support Rwanda’s School of Create Arts and Music
- Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Tourist attractions in Kigali
Many westerners associate Rwanda with the brutal genocide that overtook the country 30 years ago. But since then, Rwanda has made a huge investment in tourism — building new infrastructure, museums, music venues, and more. Now, it’s one of the most popular destinations in Africa. In this episode: Rwanda’s rebirth, how tourism has changed the country, and why this compelling narrative is more complicated than it appears.
SHOW NOTES:
- How to rebrand a country
- Mighty Popo’s KigaliUp Festival
- Support Rwanda’s School of Create Arts and Music
- Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Tourist attractions in Kigali
Previous Episode
Rick Steves: America’s Favorite Tour Guide
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SHOW NOTES:
- Rick Steves’ newest book, “On the Hippie Trail: Istanbul to Kathmandu and the Making of a Travel Writer”
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- Rick Steves’ website
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