Experience Kigali
Kigali is a city that values cleanliness, sustainability, and innovation, making it a model for other African cities.
Overview
Welcome to Kigali, the bustling capital city of Rwanda that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. This vibrant African destination is nestled in a valley surrounded by lush green hills, offering breathtaking scenery and a welcoming atmosphere. With its fascinating landmarks, rich cultural scene, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Kigali is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic African experience. Whether you’re exploring the bustling markets, strolling through tranquil parks, or immersing yourself in the city’s history and art, Kigali is sure to leave a lasting impression.
City History
The origins of Kigali trace back to the pre-colonial era when the region was inhabited by indigenous Tutsi, Hutu, and Twa communities. The area was part of the Kingdom of Rwanda, ruled by a succession of monarchs known as Mwami. These early settlers lived in a society structured around clans and kinship, with agriculture as their primary means of sustenance.
Kigali’s transformation began in earnest during the colonial period. In 1897, German explorer Richard Kandt established a settlement in the area, making Kigali the administrative center of German East Africa. Following World War I, Belgium took control of Rwanda, further developing Kigali’s infrastructure. Despite these developments, Kigali remained relatively small and underdeveloped compared to other African cities.
The most pivotal moment in Kigali’s history came in the late 20th century. In 1962, Rwanda gained independence from Belgium, and Kigali was chosen as the capital of the new republic. However, the city and the country at large faced immense challenges, culminating in the tragic genocide of 1994. During this dark period, Kigali was at the center of a horrific conflict that claimed the lives of nearly a million people.
In the aftermath of the genocide, Kigali embarked on a path of recovery and transformation. The city has since evolved into a symbol of hope and renewal. Today, Kigali stands as one of Africa’s safest and cleanest cities, characterized by its rolling hills, vibrant markets, and burgeoning tech industry. It is a hub for international conferences and a testament to Rwanda’s ambitious Vision 2020 development plan.
Things to See
Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is a vibrant and rapidly growing city that offers a range of exciting things to see and do. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and impressive modern infrastructure, Kigali is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the heart of East Africa.
Kigali Genocide Memorial – This is a somber but essential visit for anyone interested in learning about Rwanda’s history. The memorial is a moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide, and it offers a sobering reminder of the importance of peace and reconciliation.
Nyamirambo Women’s Center – This is a community-based organization that offers tours of the local area, including visits to local markets, traditional healers, and local homes. The tour is led by knowledgeable and engaging local women who provide an insightful look into the daily lives of Rwandans.Â
Inema Art Center – This is a vibrant contemporary art space that showcases the work of local Rwandan artists. The center offers a range of exhibitions, workshops, and performances, and it’s a great place to learn about the thriving arts scene in Kigali.
Kimironko Market – This is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Kigali, and it’s a great place to experience the local culture and shop for souvenirs. The market is known for its colorful textiles, fresh produce, and artisanal crafts.
Kigali Convention Center – This is a modern, state-of-the-art conference center that is also home to a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The center offers stunning views of the city and is a great place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Getting In
By Air: The most convenient way to reach Kigali is by air. Kigali International Airport is the main airport in Rwanda and is located about 10 km from the city center. There are direct flights to Kigali from major cities like Nairobi, Dubai, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, and Brussels. You can also take a connecting flight from other cities in Africa or Europe.
By Road: If you are coming from neighboring countries like Uganda, Tanzania, or Burundi, you can take a bus or hire a private car to reach Kigali. The roads are generally in good condition, and the journey can be quite scenic. However, be prepared for long travel times due to border formalities and traffic.
By Rail: Currently, there is no rail service to Kigali. However, there are plans to connect Kigali to other East African cities like Nairobi and Mombasa through a new standard gauge railway line. The project is expected to be completed in the coming years.
Currency
The official currency used in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is the Rwandan franc (RWF). The Rwandan franc is subdivided into 100 smaller units known as centimes. The banknotes in circulation are available in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 francs, while coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 francs. The Rwandan franc is issued by the National Bank of Rwanda, which is the central bank of the country. It is widely accepted throughout the city, and visitors can exchange their foreign currency for Rwandan francs at various banks and exchange bureaus located throughout Kigali.
General Knowledge Base
General information about Kigali, Rwanda.
“Kigali” means “large” or “great” in Kinyarwanda, the local language in Rwanda.
Mount Kigali is the highest point in Kigali, with an elevation of 1,850 meters (6,070 ft) above sea level.
Angelina Jolie owns a hotel in Kigali called “Heaven” that offers a breathtaking view of the city.
Kimironko Market is the largest market in Kigali, selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Rwanda has been named the cleanest country in Africa, with Kigali being one of the cleanest cities on the continent.
The Kigali Genocide Memorial Center is a powerful tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda.
Nyarutarama Park is a beautiful park in Kigali that is home to over 200 bird species and is a popular spot for bird watching.
The 27th African Union Summit was held in Kigali in 2016, and it was the first time Rwanda had hosted the summit.
