Rwanda Convention Bureau Rejoins IAPCO as Destination Partner

Kigali Convention Centre © Rwanda Convention Bureau

The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers has announced the return of the Rwanda Convention Bureau (RCB) as a Destination Partner, further strengthening its global network of convention bureaux working in close collaboration with accredited Professional Congress Organisers (PCOs).

Rwanda’s re-entry into the IAPCO Destination Partner community signals a renewed commitment to international collaboration and highlights the country’s continued drive to advance the meetings and events sector across Africa. The move reinforces a shared belief in the power of strong destination–PCO alignment to attract and deliver high-value international meetings, while enhancing bid competitiveness, expanding global networks and generating long-term economic legacy.

Positioned at the heart of Africa, Rwanda has rapidly emerged as a leading meetings destination, ranked third on the continent, with Kigali placed second, according to ICCA 2024. Backed by strong international connectivity and a growing track record of high-profile global events, the country continues to position itself as a compelling and accessible hub for international congresses.

Reflecting on the renewed partnership, Sissi Lignou, President of IAPCO, said: “We are delighted to welcome Rwanda Convention Bureau back to the IAPCO Destination Partner community. Rwanda continues to demonstrate strong ambition and capability as a global meetings destination, and its re-engagement with IAPCO reinforces the importance of collaboration in strengthening the international meetings ecosystem.

By reconnecting with our global network, Rwanda is well positioned to expand its global reach, support its local PCO community, and contribute to the continued advancement of professional congress organisations across the region,” said Lignou.

Janet Karemera (right side), Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Convention Bureau, added: “The Rwanda Convention Bureau is thrilled to rejoin IAPCO’s partnership programme, a platform that has been instrumental in promoting Rwanda to the global meetings and events community. This partnership not only strengthens our connections with planners around the world but also opens up meaningful opportunities for our local Professional Conference Organisers and industry stakeholders to grow, learn and share in global best practice.

Being part of the IAPCO community reflects our commitment to delivering world-class experiences for organisers and delegates, and to strengthen Rwanda’s position within the international business events industry,” said Karemera.

Beyond the announcement, the Rwanda Convention Bureau continues to play a key role in supporting organisations at every stage of the event journey, enabling the successful delivery of international congresses. This renewed partnership is expected to further elevate Rwanda’s global profile, while attracting business events that generate lasting economic impact and foster knowledge exchange.

Established in 2013, the IAPCO Destination Partnership Programme brings together leading convention bureaux from around the world, each contributing distinct expertise and capabilities that drive progress across the global meetings and business events industry.
 

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