Welcome to Rwanda
You’ve done the hard part—deciding to go.
Now comes the part where everything changes: the air, the pace, the people, the possibilities
This is where your new chapter begins.
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Capital
Kilgari
population
13.2 Million
Languages
Kinyarwanda, English, French
Currency
Rwandan Franc (RWF)
Time Zone
UTC +2
Climate
Temperate Tropical
A nation rebuilt on unity, innovation, and purpose.
Here’s why we chose Rwanda–
(and you’ll be glad we did!)
A city that runs on ambition, community, and forward motion.
It’s the perfect partner country for an organization like ours.
This is one of Africa's safest countries,
and you’ll feel it immediately. Low crime, calm streets, and a police presence that’s visible without being aggressive. People walk freely here. You will too.
You'll notice how clean everything is.
That’s not an accident. The country banned plastic bags. Streets are maintained daily. And once a month, everyone—from shopkeepers to government officials—comes out for community cleanup. Order here isn’t enforced. It’s shared.
Rwanda prioritized the basics and got them right.
Reliable electricity. Fast internet. Paved roads that stay paved. Public transit you can count on. The stuff that quietly makes everything else possible.
The economy here isn't just growing—it's accessible.
Starting a business takes less than a day. Corruption stays low because the government treats it like a priority, not a slogan. Whether you want to open a shop, freelance, or launch something new, the path is clear.
Rwanda has an official open-door policy for people of African descent.
They understand displacement. They want you here—not as a guest, but as someone building a life.
Here’s what daily life actually looks like.
Not what you’re imagining. Better.
FIRST THINGS FIRST. Yes, there’s coffee.
Rwanda is one of the world’s top specialty coffee producers—and Kigali has the cafe scene to prove it. Bourbon Coffee (think local Starbucks, multiple locations) is everywhere. Question Coffee employs genocide survivors. Dozens of third-wave spots serve single-origin pour-overs. A latte runs 2,500–4,000 RWF ($2–3 USD). You’ll drink better coffee here than you did at home.
The wifi works. Rwanda ranks among Africa’s top three for internet connectivity. 4G LTE covers major cities. Cafes and coworking spaces have reliable wifi. Digital nomads and remote workers operate here without issue. You can take that Zoom call.
The water situation. Tap water in Kigali is treated, but most expats drink bottled or filtered water—it’s cheap and everywhere. Don’t stress about it. Just buy a case of water bottles like everyone else does.
Getting Around
Kigali has paved roads, traffic lights, and ride-hailing apps. This isn’t the Africa from movies.
Your options:
- Motos (motorcycle taxis): Fastest and cheapest. 500–2,000 RWF per ride ($0.40–$1.50). Helmets required, drivers carry a spare.
- Ride apps: Yego Moto and Move work like Uber. Prices set upfront. No haggling.
- Public buses: Fixed routes, very affordable, still figuring out how to navigate them is part of the learning curve.
- Walking: Pleasant in most neighborhoods, but the hills will humble you. Kigali is called the “Land of a Thousand Hills” for a reason.
Food & Dining
Rwandan cuisine centers on beans, plantains, sweet potatoes, and grilled meats. Brochettes (meat skewers) are everywhere and delicious. International food is available—Ethiopian, Indian, Italian, Chinese. Fresh produce at local markets costs a fraction of US prices. You’ll eat well here.
Money & Shopping
Modern supermarkets stock imported goods if you need them. Local markets offer better prices on produce and household items. Banking is straightforward—major banks have English-speaking staff. Mobile money (MTN Mobile Money) handles most transactions. Cash is less necessary than you’d expect.
Cultural Rhythms
Life moves at a deliberate pace. Greetings matter—take time to say hello properly. Respect for elders is fundamental. Church attendance is high. Sunday mornings are quiet. Most shops close by 6pm. Nightlife exists but is modest. You’ll adjust to the rhythm within weeks.
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