THE RWANDAN capital of Kigali has been welcomed into the BestCities Global Alliance – an international network of leading convention destinations.
Kigali is recognised as the cleanest and safest city in Africa with a with a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and economic development, according to a statement by BestCities.
Janet Karemera, CEO, Rwanda Convention Bureau, said: “Kigali has built strong capacity to host international meetings and events, supported by world-class infrastructure and a proven track record of delivering high-profile conferences.”
Karemara said Rwanda would heighten its profile as a conference destination, exchange expertise, and “continue elevating Kigali as a competitive destination for global business” that through the BestCities platform.
Located in east-central Africa in the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, Kigali becomes the 14th member of the alliance after building a record of welcoming delegates from around the world and the infrastructure necessary to host business events.
BestCities said the destination is easily accessible through Kigali International Airport, a 15-minute drive from the city centre and major conference venues.
Kigali is connected to more than 160 destinations through RwandAir and international carriers such as Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines, while new Bugesera International Airport is due to be completed this year. Rwanda also offers visa-on-arrival for all nationalities, ensuring easier travel for international attendees.
More… Rwanda wins ICCA Congress 2027 bid
Among the venues in the capital are Kigali Convention Centre, which accommodates up to 5,000 delegates, and BK Arena, with capacity for more than 10,000 attendees. Kigali also offers over 10,000 hotel rooms, many within minutes of key venues and the city centre.
Delegates can walk or cycle through Nyandungu Eco Park, enjoy golf and coffee tastings, and sample Rwanda’s farm-to-table cuisine. Kigali is also a gateway to some of the country’s most iconic attractions, including Volcanoes National Park and its world-renowned mountain gorilla trekking experience, and Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake with kayaking, boating, and lakeside resorts.
Kigali’s growing reputation as a global association destination is reflected in the ICCA rankings, where it has remained Africa’s second-ranked city for six consecutive years. In 2025, Rwanda hosted more than 25 association meetings, including the 13th International AIDS Society Conference and the 4th Global NCD Alliance Forum.
Looking ahead, Kigali’s congress calendar continues to expand, with major events already secured – including the ICCA Congress 2027 and World Nephrology Congress 2029, making the city one of Africa’s most appealing destinations for international meetings and conventions.
“As on one of Africa’s fastest-growing meeting destinations, Kigali is a natural fit for BestCities,” said Julia Swanson, Board Chair, BestCities. “The city exemplifies the qualities that define today’s leading convention destinations: strong knowledge and innovation sectors, a commitment to sustainability, and a keen understanding of how business events can drive social and economic impact.
“Combined with Rwanda’s extraordinary wildlife, scenery, and cultural experiences, Kigali offers associations and delegates an exceptional destination both inside and outside the meeting room,” Swanson said.
Main image… Kigali Convention Centre
