#OutToLunch: Rwanda’s F1 bet a pathway in diversifying African tourism

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda published an opinion piece by Denis Jjuuko arguing that Rwanda’s move into Formula One could help broaden its tourism model. The article says Rwanda announced a partnership in October that could bring F1 back to Africa for the first time since 1993, with plans for a race track outside Kigali and hopes of hosting an African Grand Prix in the early 2030s.

The writer contrasts this with what he describes as Africa’s overreliance on wildlife-based tourism, saying many visitors across the continent already see animals in everyday life or on domestic trips. In his view, motorsport offers a different draw that could appeal to new audiences, including fans who travel for major races and associated events.

The piece links the proposed race to wider economic effects, suggesting it could support hotels, transport services, the new airport area, and other investment around Bugesera near Kigali. It also notes that Formula One has a strong international fan base and references interest from Lewis Hamilton in racing in Africa, though the article treats this as speculative. The overall argument is that Rwanda is trying to diversify tourism by creating a high-profile sporting destination rather than relying only on traditional safari attractions.