Radisson Blu Kigali wins best architectural design & best hotel development award

Rwanda's hospitality sector is abuzz with excitement as Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali, recently clinched two prestigious awards for Best Architectural Design and Best Hotel Development in 2018. The General Manager of the facility, Denis J. Denault, spoke to CNBC Africa about the significance of these accolades for the brand and the future outlook for the hotel. Winning these awards not only honors the visionaries behind the project but also elevates the international profile of Radisson Blu, propelling it to greater heights. According to Denault, the recognition offers a platform to showcase Rwanda's story on a global stage, opening doors for the country's burgeoning hospitality industry. The Radisson Blu property, with its stunning architectural design, has become a symbol of excellence in the region. Denault emphasized the positive trajectory the hotel has experienced since its opening in 2016, citing notable events such as the UN STELLA summit and the African Union gatherings that marked its initial years. While the initial phase posed some challenges, Denault noted a significant uptick in business performance from the last quarter of 2017, with optimistic projections for the coming years. The surge in demand for quality accommodation and conference facilities in Rwanda has attracted global players like Sheraton and Hilton, set to enter the market. However, Denault views these developments not as threats but as opportunities for collaboration. The Radisson Blu's strategic partnership with the Co-Motion Center aims to drive tourism and business growth collectively, ensuring a sustainable market for all players. With Rwanda targeting $800 million in tourism revenue by 2024, the hotel's focus on the meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE) sector remains pivotal. Denault highlighted the importance of international trade shows in promoting the hotel and Rwanda as a prime MICE destination. The recent visit of a key MICE company to the facility underscored the positive impact of such engagements on business prospects. As Rwanda aims to create 1.5 million jobs by 2024, the hospitality industry is poised to play a significant role in job creation. In addition to generating employment opportunities, Radisson Blu is committed to upskilling its workforce to meet global standards. The hotel offers in-house and online training programs, alongside investing in talent development initiatives like the upcoming sales team Masterclass in Iowa. Through continuous training and development, Radisson Blu aims to nurture a skilled workforce capable of delivering exceptional service and enhancing Rwanda's reputation as a leading hospitality destination. The future looks promising for Radisson Blu Kigali as it continues to set new benchmarks in luxury hospitality and contribute to Rwanda's economic growth through job creation and skill development.