Kigali: An Attractive Hub for Security, Investment, and Cleanliness in Africa

Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is gaining recognition as one of the most appealing cities in Africa, thanks to its strong security, ample investment opportunities, cleanliness, and straightforward business processes. According to international residents and travelers, the country’s favorable visa policy further enhances its allure. In a recent report titled "Africa's Most Inviting, Liveable, and Investable Cities," published on November 29 by The Africa Report and Jeune Afrique, Kigali was ranked as the second most liveable and investable city on the continent.

This acknowledgment highlights the city's growing reputation as a prime destination for both living and business.

Ann Njoki Mbugua, a Kenyan university student, shared her perspective on Kigali's reputation for safety. She contrasted her experiences in Kigali with other cities she has visited, stating, "I can venture out at odd hours and stroll through the streets without constantly worrying about potential attacks or pickpockets, which is a common concern in many other places."

Henry Osakwe, a Nigerian businessman working in the IT sector, expressed his admiration for the security and integrity of the Rwandan people. He noted, "One remarkable aspect is the trust I can place in strangers. I can hand a package to a random motorbike rider, confident it will be delivered safely. This culture of trust in the community was surprising to me." Osakwe emphasized that there is no attempt to deceive foreigners, reflecting a deep-rooted sense of trust among Rwandans. He believes that Rwanda's welcoming attitude towards diverse nationalities also contributes to its appeal.

Alimamy Bangura, an entrepreneur from Sierra Leone who invests in education and poverty reduction, echoed these sentiments. He praised Rwanda's reliable internet and electricity infrastructure, stating, "The security here is quite commendable. I have personally never experienced theft or physical harm." He added that reliable electricity fosters improvements and investments in infrastructure, making Rwanda an attractive destination for entrepreneurs.

Osakwe highlighted the ease of investing in Kigali, crediting the government's commitment to exempting new small and medium-sized enterprises from trading license taxes for their first two years. "The government has streamlined the process for foreigners to invest in the country with enticing tax incentives for startups," he explained. He was particularly impressed by the straightforward information available for registering and starting a business, noting, "A business can be established in just one day, and the processes are remarkably efficient." Jeff-Nwankwo Nmesoma, a Nigerian entrepreneur in tourism, hospitality, and communication, shared her reasons for starting her business in Rwanda. She noted that Kigali offers a friendly business environment, with numerous events and networking opportunities attracting prominent figures daily. "Many events across various fields are now taking place in Kigali, providing fertile ground for business expansion," she said. Bangura also affirmed that opening a business in Rwanda is smoother compared to many other African nations, stating, "When I sought to establish my business, the process was very smooth. Rwanda excels in facilitating the acquisition of business documents."

Nmesoma emphasized that Kigali lives up to its reputation for cleanliness, asserting, "Kigali's cleanliness is not just a saying; it is a reality." She remarked on the remarkable hygiene and organization of the city compared to her homeland, attributing this to the pride and discipline of its citizens. Osakwe agreed, stating that the city's cleanliness was a key factor in his decision to come to Rwanda. "The way the people care for their environment is incredibly appealing; I haven't seen such dedication to cleanliness in other African countries during my research," he recalled.

Rwanda also ranks first in visa openness according to the Africa Visa Openness Index 2024. Citizens of African Union member states are not required to obtain visas for stays of up to 30 days, while those from the East African Community enjoy visa-free access for six months. Osakwe described the visa process as "very seamless," noting that obtaining a visa was nearly free and quick. "The Rwandan government's streamlined approach to visas makes it an attractive option for visitors and investors alike," he concluded. In summary, Kigali stands out as a model city in Africa, offering safety, investment potential, cleanliness, and an inviting visa policy, making it an increasingly popular destination for residents and tourists alike.