Kigali, Rwanda

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Background Information

  1.  Visiting Rwanda:

When preparing for a visit to Rwanda, there are several important aspects to consider. Here’s a list to help you plan your trip:

Here what the USA consulate in Rwanda advise their citizen when visiting Rwanda visitors

Below are official information from Rwandan government:

  • Visa Requirements:
  • Health Precautions:
    • Consult your healthcare provider for advice on vaccinations and health precautions. Common vaccinations include yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and meningitis.
  • Travel Insurance:
    • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover potential medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.
  • Currency:
    • The official currency is the Rwandan franc (RWF). Ensure you have some local currency for small expenses, and credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments.
  • Language:
    • The official languages are Kinyarwanda, French, and English. English is commonly spoken, especially in urban areas.
  • Cultural Sensitivity:
    • Familiarize yourself with Rwandan customs and traditions. Respect local customs and be sensitive to cultural differences.
  • Weather:
    • Rwanda has a temperate tropical highland climate, but temperatures can vary. Pack accordingly, and check the weather forecast for your specific travel dates.
  • Attractions:
    • Research and plan visits to key attractions such as Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, Akagera National Park for wildlife safaris, Lake Kivu, and historical sites like the Genocide Memorial in Kigali.
  • Transportation:
    • Arrange transportation within the country. Public transportation options are available, but it’s advisable to plan ahead, especially if you’re traveling to remote areas.
  • Safety and Security:
    • Rwanda is generally safe, but it’s essential to stay informed about the current safety situation. Check travel advisories and follow local guidelines.
  • Power Adapters:
    • Rwanda uses the British-style Type G electrical outlets. Bring the appropriate power adapters for your electronic devices.
  • Internet and Communication:
    • Rwanda has a well-developed internet infrastructure. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for your phone or activating an international roaming plan.
  • Local Cuisine:
    • Explore Rwandan cuisine, which often includes dishes like ugali (maize porridge), brochettes (grilled meat skewers), and plantains. Be open to trying local delicacies.
  • Respect for Wildlife:
    • If you plan on engaging in wildlife activities like gorilla trekking, adhere to guidelines to minimize impact and ensure the well-being of the animals.
  • Emergency Contacts:
    • Save important local contacts, including embassy information, local emergency numbers, and the contact details of your accommodation.

Remember to stay flexible, be open to new experiences, and respect the local culture for a rewarding and enjoyable visit to Rwanda.

 

2. About Rwanda

Rwanda, warmly known as “the land of a thousand hills’’ is situated in East – central Africa. It lies 121 Km South (75 miles) of the equator in the Tropic of Capricorn, 1416 kilometers (880Miles) west of the Indian Ocean and 1250Km (777Miles) east of the Atlantic Ocean – literally the heart of Africa.

3. About Kigali, Capital City of Rwanda:

The City of Kigali is the capital of Rwanda and is located at Rwanda’s geographical heart. Occupying an area of 730km2, the City is located at latitude 10o58’ S and a longitude 30o07’ E.The average annual precipitation rate is approximately, with an annual average high temperature of 27oC and annual average low temperature of 16 oC.

The City of Kigali is composed of three Districts namely Gasabo, Kicukiro and Nyarugenge. Gasabo is the largest district by geographical area at 429.3km2, followed by Kicukiro (166.7km2) and Nyarugenge (134km2). The City of Kigali population is 1,745,555 the datsource is the fifth Rwanda Population and Housing Census (RPHC5).

The districts are also divided into 35 administrative sectors which in turn are divided into 161 Cells.The smallest administrative unit is the village and the City is made up of 1,155 villages.The City boarders the Gicumbi and Rulindo Districts of Northern Province, Bugesera and Rwamagana Districts of Eastern Province and Kamonyi District of Southern Province. Kigali is the most visited area in Rwanda. It houses several tourism sites, hotels, and a centrally placed International Airport.

A new International Airport in Bugesera to serve Kigali is under construction about 15 km to the east of the City.The City of Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda has seen rapid growth for the last two and half decades. It is among the fastest growing cities in Africa with an urbanization annual growth rate of 4% and it contributes over 41% of the national GDP which indicates the primacy of Kigali to the Rwandan economy.

This growth has been driven by visionary leadership in Rwanda which has helped transform the country from a low scale agrarian economy to an active player within the regional economy. Kigali has been at the centre of the transformation in Rwanda and is on the threshold of rapid economic growth.