Kigali has joined the BestCities Global Alliance. The capital of Rwanda becomes the 14th member of its worldwide network of leading convention destinations.
Rwanda’s capital claims to be the safest city in Africa and is accessible through Kigali International Airport, which connects to more than 160 destinations. And the new, Bugesera International Airport is scheduled for completion later in 2026.
In term of world-class events space, the Kigali Convention Centre can accommodate up to 5,000 delegates, and BK Arena has capacity for more than 10,000 attendees. The city also offers over 10,000 hotel rooms.
Rwanda also offers stunning nature for delegates to explore, including Nyandungu Eco Park, Volcanoes National Park and its mountain gorilla trekking experience; and Lake Kivu. Ther are also opportunities for coffee tastings and golf.
Kigali has been Africa’s second-ranked city for six consecutive years in the ICCA rankings and, in 2025, Rwanda hosted more than 25 association meetings, including the 13th International AIDS Society Conference and the 4th Global NCD Alliance Forum.
Major events already secured for Kigali’s calendar include the ICCA Congress 2027 and World Nephrology Congress 2029.
“As 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.”
“We are delighted to join the BestCities Global Alliance – a membership that reflects Kigali’s commitment to strengthening its position within the global MICE industry,” said Janet Karemera, CEO, Rwanda Convention Bureau. “Through this platform, we aim to further enhance our visibility, exchange expertise, and continue elevating Kigali as a competitive destination for global business events.”
For more information, visit the Kigali city page.
