About Rwanda

General Info

Time: GMT +2

Languages: Kinyarwanda, English, French

Currency: Rwandan Francs (Frw)

Population: 13 million

Telecoms: MTN and AIRTEL

 

About the Host Country

Rwanda is a country known for its breathtaking scenery, often referred to as the land of a thousand hills. Its capital Kigali has been ranked the second most popular destination in Africa for hosting international conferences and events by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).

With more than 60% of its parliamentary seats and 46% of cabinet positions occupied by women, Rwanda stands tall both globally and on the African continent in terms of women’s representation in decision-making. It is not only in politics but also in economics, health, security, and other key sectors. Rwanda is the first in Africa and sixth globally in closing gender gaps.

Dine and shop around Kigali

 

Stay Connected

MTN and Airtel are Rwanda’s telecommunications providers. They successfully provide internet between four data network speeds: GPRS, 3G, 4G, and 5G.

 

Are you looking to Purchase a SIM card?

SIM cards for cell phones can be accessed with ease. Note that by Rwandan legislation, every user/buyer must be registered to activate the SIM, and it is easy to do. Upon arrival, one would be required to present a form of identity of one’s preference (ID card or passport). At the point of purchase, visitors can register.

 

Plastic Ban

Plastic bags are not permitted in Rwanda as part of an environmental policy. Plastic bags must be discarded by passengers entering Kigali International Airport (KIA) or any border checkpoint. Travelers are given a cost-effective, ecologically friendly alternative.

 

Business and Shopping

Monday through Friday, public offices are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and business hours are typically 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m but can go over till midnight.

Most bars and hotels work 24/7.

 

Climate

The lengthy dry season in Rwanda lasts from the end of June to the end of August. The average daily maximum temperature is roughly 23°C (79°F), with temperatures infrequently falling below 23°C (75°F) or surpassing 28°C (83°F).

The average low temperature at night is 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). Kigali is a secure, hygienic, and competitive contemporary city with a thriving economy.

 

Banking

Monday through Friday, banking hours are 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., except on Umuganda days (community service), which are the last Saturday of each month. On Sunday, certain branches are open and others are not.

All commercial banks offer a variety of banking services. The majority of banks feature cash dispensers that take Visa and MasterCard. Foreign exchange services are accessible across Kigali.

Commercial banks, hotels, and international airports may exchange the most globally recognized currencies and travelers’ checks. Most hotels, restaurants, and businesses accept major credit cards.

 

COVID-19

With the new guidelines, passengers traveling to Rwanda are no longer required to show proof of pre-departure COVID-19 test.

Check the latest COVID-19 information to ensure you have a hassle-free trip here.

 

Visit Rwanda

Rwanda is blessed with extraordinary biodiversity, with incredible wildlife living throughout its volcanoes, mountain rainforest, and sweeping plains.

Travelers come from far and wide to catch a glimpse of the magnificent gorillas, yet there is so much more to see and experience. Read more here.

See the guide to visit Rwanda here.

 

Gorilla Trekking

Interested in gorilla trekking before or after the Conference? The RDB is providing a 15% discount to all Women Deliver 2023 Conference delegates!

Here are the steps to apply for the Conference discount:

  1. Apply
  2. Fill in the product and visit details.
  3. Save & click on “Next”
  4. Fill in the Visitor’s info (names, date of birth, place of residence and email, upload passport, Conference invitation, registration receipt). Save & click on “Next”
  5. The summary of what you did and the amount you are supposed to pay.
  6. Submit
  7. Follow the payment steps and make the payment

Check out their website here for more information.