Bisesero Heritage & Eco-Tourism Development

The Bisesero Heritage and Community Tourism Development Project is a transformative community-led initiative designed to preserve Bisesero’s unique historical and cultural heritage while creating sustainable tourism and economic opportunities. Led by VISIT KIVU CBC, the project will document authentic survivor testimonies, establish a Heritage and Cultural Hub celebrating traditional cattle culture and local hospitality, and develop a Heroes Monument and digital exhibition space to transform Bisesero’s history into a living and immersive visitor experience.

Over its 36-month implementation period, the initiative aims to directly benefit at least 500 community members, including genocide survivors, youth, women, farmers, livestock keepers, and local entrepreneurs. Through tourism, hospitality, guiding, dairy production, cultural performances, crafts, and other small enterprises, the project is expected to support the creation of approximately 150 direct and indirect jobs.

Once operational, the destination aims to attract at least 10,000 domestic and international visitors annually, contributing to longer visitor stays and increased tourism spending in Karongi District. Visitors will experience heritage interpretation, survivor testimonies, cultural demonstrations, traditional cuisine, dairy experiences, guided tours, camping, and educational activities.

By combining heritage conservation with entrepreneurship and community ownership, the project will preserve authentic historical memory, strengthen cultural identity, empower local communities, and generate sustainable income for future generations. Tourism revenues from guided experiences, hospitality services, cultural events, accommodation, dairy products, and souvenirs will contribute to the long-term maintenance and sustainability of the project.