Kigali

Kigali is the capital city in central Rwanda, spreading over multiple hills and valleys. Wide avenues lined with trees connect modern neighborhoods with older residential areas, while green spaces remain visible between the streets.

A German colonial administration founded the settlement in the early 20th century as a regional administrative center in the former colony. After independence in the 1960s, the city took over the role of national capital from an earlier southern settlement.

The name refers to the hilly terrain that defines the region, a term still heard in everyday conversation across the districts. Open-air markets emerge at various corners, where vendors sell fresh produce from the surrounding valleys and neighbors meet to chat.

Buses and motorcycle taxis connect the different district centers, with vehicles running frequently during the day. The central location allows easy onward travel to other parts of the country along paved roads.

A lake on the eastern edge of town sits beside a golf course and offers a quiet walking loop through the urban landscape. Birds gather early in the morning along the shore, where occasional joggers and walkers pass by.

Location: Kigali Province

Inception: 1907

Elevation above the sea: 1,567 m

Website: https://kigalicity.gov.rw

GPS coordinates: -1.95085,30.06151

Latest update: December 4, 2025 11:00