Zipline, a global leader in autonomous drone delivery, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to begin delivering Made in Rwanda products to resorts and lodges, with proceeds going towards the Volcanoes National Park Expansion Project.
This collaboration builds upon Zipline’s existing success in delivering medical supplies and underscores its commitment to supporting Rwanda’s natural wildlife and economic development through cutting-edge technology.
Key highlights of the partnership include:
Promoting Made in Rwanda products: Zipline, in collaboration with RDB, will deliver high-quality Made in Rwanda fashion and souvenir items to lodges and hotels across the country. This initiative aims to boost local businesses, enhance the visibility of Rwandan products, and contribute to the growth of the nation’s creative economy.
Conserving Rwanda’s mountain gorilla habitats: a portion of the fee paid for every delivery completed by Zipline within Rwanda’s tourism sector will go towards the Volcanoes National Park Expansion project, which is a critical initiative to support the conservation of mountain gorilla populations and other endangered wildlife.
Logistical efficiency and sustainability: By utilizing Zipline’s autonomous drone technology, the partnership will streamline the delivery process, reducing delivery times and improving the overall efficiency of supply chain logistics. Further integrating Zipline into Rwanda’s logistics ecosystem also underscores RDB’s commitment to promoting environmentally friendly technology, given Zipline’s minimal carbon footprint.
Commenting on the partnership, Pierre Kayitana, General Manager of Zipline Rwanda, enthusiastically stated, “We are absolutely elated to join forces with the Rwanda Development Board, broadening the horizons of our drone delivery services far beyond the realm of medical supplies. This initiative allows Zipline, in collaboration with handpicked ‘Made in Rwanda’ brands, to enchant tourists by seamlessly delivering exquisite local gifts directly to their hotel doorsteps, even in the most remote corners of Rwanda.”
He further added, “We are incredibly proud to announce that Wilderness Destinations and Umva Muhazi Lodge are the pioneering subscribers to this innovative drone delivery service, aimed at enhancing the experience of their esteemed guests.”
Expressing enthusiasm about the collaboration, Francis Gatare, CEO at Rwanda Development Board, stated, ” This partnership underscores our dedication to collaborating closely with private sector entities, such as Zipline, to advance environmental conservation, stimulate economic development, and foster a culture of innovation.”
In March, 2023, President Kagame had a technical meeting with the CEO of Zipline at the International level, Keller Rinaudo, allowing him to expand the operation of his company to provide Rwandans with other services other than bringing blood to hospitals.
This partnership between Zipline Rwanda and Rwanda Development Board sets a precedent for the integration of drone technology into diverse sectors, fostering economic development and sustainability. The joint effort aims to position Rwanda as a global leader in embracing innovative solutions for the betterment of people and natural wildlife.
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