IMPACT OF VISIT RWANDA POLICY IN PROMOTING TOURISM INDUSTRY AND SOCIAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF RWANDA CASE STUDY: MINISTRY OF SPORT IN PARTNERSHIP WITH RWANDA DEVELOPMENT BOARD PERIOD: 2018-2024

Abstract

The “Visit Rwanda” policy, launched in 2018, aims to position Rwanda as a premier tourist destination while fostering economic growth through tourism. This study examines the impact of this policy on the development of Rwanda, focusing specifically on the Ministry of Sport’s initiatives and activities from 2018 to 2023.The primary objective of this research is to analyze how the Visit Rwanda policy has influenced sports development, tourism growth, and overall economic advancement within the country. Our findings show that the influence of the visibility and popularity of visit Rwanda of Rwandan football both locally and internationally Changes in attendance at local matches with 19.6% Increases in social media engagement related to Rwandan football with 37.8% ,the number of international partnerships or sponsorships that have emerged as a result of increased visibility 42.6%; according to the impact observed in terms of funding and resources allocated to FERWAFA as a result of the Visit Rwanda program, Specific funding amounts received by FERWAFA attributed to Visit Rwanda is at 24.5%, Specific funding amounts received by FERWAFA attributed to Visit Rwanda. Is at 29.5%, improvements in infrastructure, such as stadium renovations or training facilities was reported by 29.5% and the establishment of youth programs or academies funded through initiatives associated with Visit Rwanda was reported by 47%.; concerning the influence of visit Rwanda to the growth of tourism in Rwanda, Significantly Increased has been reported by 70.5%, Moderately Increased by 22.9% and no Change by 4.9%.Concerning the contribution of partnership between FERWAFA and the Visit Rwanda” program to local community development 57.4% reported with strong contribution,27.8% with some contribution 11.5% with minimum contribution and 3.55 with negative impact...The study anticipates that the findings provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of national policies like Visit Rwanda in driving both tourism and sports development. In Rwanda.