As riders in the 2026 Tour du Rwanda traverse the country’s northern hills, Gicumbi District is seizing the moment to present itself as a destination where history, memory and nature intersect.

With the global cycling race drawing attention to the region, local authorities say the event provides a strategic platform to highlight Gicumbi’s role in Rwanda’s liberation history as well as its growing eco-tourism appeal.

Officials describe the district as a symbolic stronghold of the liberation struggle, inviting visitors to discover Umulindi w’Intwari, a key site on the Liberation Trail. Once a strategic base during the fight that ended the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the location now stands as a place of remembrance and national reflection, attracting those seeking deeper insight into Rwanda’s journey toward unity and renewal.

Beyond its historical significance, Gicumbi is also promoting its environmental assets. Gicumbi points to Urugezi Marsh, a protected wetland known for its rich biodiversity and bird species. The marsh is increasingly recognized as a promising eco-tourism site and a vital conservation area within Rwanda’s natural landscape.

The district is further spotlighting Lake Muhazi, whose serene waters and surrounding hills offer opportunities for leisure tourism and investment. Local leaders say efforts are underway to strengthen infrastructure and hospitality services around the lake while maintaining environmental sustainability.

Over the years, the Tour du Rwanda has evolved beyond a sporting competition into a vehicle for territorial branding. Host districts now use the race to promote cultural heritage, tourism and economic prospects to both national and international audiences.

For Gicumbi, the ambition is to translate the visibility generated by the race into long-term recognition as a destination that blends historical depth with ecological richness. As the cyclists move on, district officials hope the narrative of resilience and natural beauty will endure well beyond the finish line.