Sanctions Pose Threat To Rwanda's Growing Mice Sector

Canada has become the latest country to impose sanctions on Rwanda for its alleged support of March 23 Movement or Congolese Revolutionary Army M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of the Congo DRC. While the sanctions announced by Canada, the UK and the European Union focus on trade restrictions, Rwandas burgeoning meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions MICE sector is also in the firing line.

In a joint statement this week, Canadian ministers condemned the alleged human rights violations happening in the DRC. As a result, Canada is suspending permits for exports of controlled goods and technologies, new government-to-government business pursuits with Rwanda and trade missions and will review the Canadian governments participation in international events hosted in Rwanda as well as Rwandan proposals to host any future events.

The UK said it is withdrawing high-level attendance at events hosted by the government of Rwanda.

In return, Rwanda has called the Canadian sanctions shameful, saying in a statement that the measures announced by Canada will not solve the conflict.

Rwanda has been on a major drive to grow tourism revenue. Its Strategy for Transformation for 2024-2029 highlights its goal to establish Rwanda as a top global MICE destination. According to International Congress and Convention Association data, in 2023, Rwanda ranked second in Africa after South Africa for in-person meetings.