Nicknamed ‘The Switzerland of Africa’, Rwanda has certainly emerged as a financial hub in Africa and it is clear to see why. While walking down Kigali’s streets, the forward trajectory that Rwanda is on is evident and it takes a simple walk to seduce one to believe that indeed the tiny East African nation is one of Africa’s most progressive economies.

One’s first impression of Kigali is how clean and neat the city is. Not a single piece of litter can be seen for miles. The roads are also well maintained with smooth roads, clear carriage ways, cyclic tracks, working traffic lights and designated pick up points for public transport. So how does one navigate the glowing city? The public transport is made up of taxis, buses and for the daring ones bodas. A boda is motorbike in which one person can use. Bodas are often cheap and the bikers provide their riders with helmets.

Rwanda is known as ‘the land of a thousand hills‘ and indeed its capital city is no exception. The whole city appears to be set on endless hills each carrying the nation’s greenery which gives for a lush backdrop for onlookers.

Places of Interest

Kigali Genocide Memorial: The Kigali Genocide Memorial is free for attendants to enter though they are encouraged to bring a “tip” for enjoying the exhibition. The museum pays homage to the victims of the 1994 genocide which took place on the nation and claimed millions of lives while millions were displaced from their homes.

The museum has its details in English, French and Kinyarwanda but audio aids are provided for speakers of other languages. A history of Rwanda from pre-colonial days, to colonial rule under Belgium and eventual independence is simplified for visitors.

Kimihurura Roundabout Park

This is a serene park that is popular with runners and lovers of the outdoors. It also has benches for those who would like to sit and escape the speed of city life.

Kigali Public Library

The library was commissioned in 2012 and is a hub of activity. The building has three stories and is a meeting point of not only bibliophiles but students and researchers alike. It even boasts of a children’s area where the young are provided with story times and wide array of children’s books. Writing contests are also held at the centre to boost shine a light on Rwanda’s local writers.

Nyandungu Eco Tourism Park

This is another park which hosts beautiful walkways and a number of rare birds. Apart from a relaxing walk people can also come to the park for picnics, bike rides and bird watching. Entrance to the park is charged but the scenery is worth the price.

Apart from these places are the simple pleasure of walking down the capital’s streets. A walk down the streets prove to be refreshing, safe and enjoyable experience. There are various malls which have shops, eateries and foreign currency exchange centres. Noticeable is blooming real estate sector of the town with many commercial and residential buildings under construction. Many hotels and Air BnBs are also conveniently located close to the city centre, making many attractions a walking distance away from one’s place of rest. Arts centres, museums and galleries are also spread out across the city.

Cuisine: The nation’s cuisine is varied and reflects the international influence that has touched almost every corner of the world. While the nation’s staple is ugali it is served with relish such as cabbage or meats such as lamb, beef, fish and chicken. American eateries and European style cafes are dotted around the city giving a wide variety to its many visitors. I even came across a Spanish eatery a few minutes from where I was staying!

The main languages spoken in this nation are French, Kinyarwanda, English and Swahili (signs across the city often have the first three languages on them). It also common to come across nationals from all across the world including Chinese, Americans, British, French, Kenyans and of course the local nationals. Tourist shops are also around the whole city and provide spirited trinkets that one can take home to remember the calm yet pulsating spirit of this African treasure.