East African Brands: Spotlight on Kigali 

Rwanda is fast becoming a hub for innovation, creativity, and cultural expression, and Kigali is at the heart of this vibrant transformation. In this spotlight, we’re featuring three incredible spaces that perfectly embody the city’s dynamic spirit.

To begin with, explore a remarkable venue that seamlessly blends high-concept art with fine dining, offering an unforgettable journey through taste and creativity. Then, discover a stunning shop where jewelry meets sustainability and local craftsmanship, and lastly, Rwanda’s First Craft Distillery and Tasting Room.

CHOOSE KIGALI 

Choose Kigali is a vibrant, multifaceted destination that seamlessly blends high-concept art with fine dining. This dynamic space has earned its reputation as the top urban hotspot in the region, offering an unparalleled fusion of creative dining and wine experiences. Among its standout offerings are multicourse omakase menus crafted by international guest chefs and paired with selections curated by expert sommeliers, making it a haven for culinary enthusiasts.

Beyond its culinary excellence, Choose Kigali has established itself as Kigali’s premier closed event space, hosting prestigious gatherings, including events for the Basketball Africa League and NBA Africa. This dual-purpose venue is not just a favorite among high-profile guests but also a key player in showcasing the best of Rwandan and international culture.

As Rwanda’s leading art gallery, Choose Kigali is home to an impressive collection of artworks, including those of renowned artist Emmanuel Nkuranga. The Gallery offers an intimate and immersive art experience, featuring a rotating selection of paintings that blend contemporary and classic styles. Every visit promises a fresh perspective, with art and ambiance coming together to inspire and engage visitors.

For fine dining, Choose Kigali boasts multiple options. Its à la carte restaurant, La Terrace, and the relaxed Terra-Dek offer exquisite menus for every occasion. The Tasting Room is a standout, offering an 8-course menu that changes daily and can be tailored to guests’ preferences or dietary needs. Each dish is paired with premium wines and handcrafted libations, creating a culinary journey unlike any other.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a food lover, or someone seeking a unique cultural experience, Choose Kigali is an unmissable destination where creativity thrives and every moment feels extraordinary.

ABRAHAM KONGA 

Abraham Konga is a talented artist and visionary entrepreneur whose shop has become one of Kigali’s must-visit destinations. Nestled in a vibrant corner of the city, his shop is a testament to his commitment to showcasing Rwandan craftsmanship and sustainable creativity.

The inspiration for Abraham's shop came when he noticed numerous women selling beautifully handcrafted baskets. He realized that by providing them with a dedicated space to sell their creations, they could reach a broader audience and increase their earnings. Today, his shop is a stunning showcase of these vibrant baskets, draping the walls in a colorful display that entices passersby to step inside.

Once inside, visitors are greeted with a treasure trove of local artistry. One side of the shop is dedicated to a carefully curated selection of gifts and collectibles created by local artisans, each item telling a story of Rwanda’s culture and creativity. The other side features Abraham's own jewelry collection, crafted from recycled and upcycled materials such as padlocks and cowhorn. These innovative designs highlight his ability to transform everyday items into striking, wearable art.

Recently, Abraham has ventured into bespoke fine jewelry, creating exquisite pieces that blend contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship. His attention to detail and passion for sustainable practices shine through in every piece, making his creations truly unique.

A visit to Abraham Konga’s shop is an opportunity to connect with Rwanda’s vibrant artisan community and witness the fusion of traditional and modern design. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift, a statement piece of jewelry, or simply want to soak in the creative atmosphere, Abraham’s shop is an unmissable stop on any trip to Kigali.

VIRUNGA MOUNTAIN SPIRITS

Rwanda’s spirits scene welcomed an exciting addition with the grand opening of Virunga Mountain Spirits, a premium craft distillery nestled in the breathtaking foothills of the Virunga Mountains. Officially launched on December 12, 2024, this world-class distillery and tasting room offers visitors an immersive agrotourism experience that highlights Rwandan heritage, sustainable practices, and the contributions of women in alcohol production.

At the heart of Virunga Mountain Spirits is Kari Vodka, the distillery’s flagship product, crafted from Kinigi potatoes grown in the region’s nutrient-rich volcanic soil. Sourced from local farmer cooperatives and Winnaz/Hollanda Fairfoods, these high-quality potatoes—often overlooked in the market—are transformed into a smooth, premium vodka that embodies both innovation and tradition. The purity of Musanze’s gravity-fed volcanic water further enhances the vodka’s exceptional character, making it a true reflection of Rwanda’s natural bounty.

Visitors can embark on an interactive journey from field to bottle through guided tours and tastings at the state-of-the-art facility. The experience includes a firsthand look at the distillation process, a demonstration farm showcasing Kinigi potatoes, and a sampling of Kari Vodka. Virunga Mountain Spirits offers curated add-ons such as a Vodka Tasting Menu and a Farm-to-Fork Meal Package for those looking to elevate their visit, blending Rwandan flavours with an innovative cocktail experience at the the Kinigi Grill. Guests can also explore the on-site gift shop, which features artisanal souvenirs, Rwandan-made keepsakes, and exclusive Virunga Mountain Spirits merchandise.

We totally fell in love with Kigali, and we can’t wait to take you through all the amazing spots we explored! But that’s just the beginning. We’ll take you further out to experience Rwanda’s incredible landscapes, from the misty mountains of Volcanoes National Park to the stunning wildlife of Akagera National Park. Trust us, there’s so much more to this beautiful country.