June 2014 - August 2014 The Insider’s Guide to Rwanda & Burundi L I K E A L L G O O D T H I N G S I AM FREE If Paradise were a place, Rwiza Village would be it... Pamper yourself at Tropitel-Gitega hotel Main article Gitega Special BURUNDI: Leisure 7 Surprising memories you will take from Rwanda
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The Eye magazine Rwanda & Burundi June-August 2014
The Eye Magazine Rwanda & Burundi is the definitive guide to Rwanda and Burundi. As a magazine-directory from the prestigious The Eye Magazine brand, it gives you tips on places to visit, things to do and how to carry out business in the two countries. Also contains the most relevant contacts you will need in Rwanda or Burundi. Enjoy!
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
June 2014 - August 2014
The Insider’s Guide to Rwanda & Burundi
LIK
E A
LL G
OOD THINGS
I AM
FREEIf Paradise were a place, Rwiza Village would be it...
Pamper yourself at Tropitel-Gitega hotel
Main article
Gitega SpecialBURUNDI:
Leisure7 Surprising memories you will take from Rwanda
Marasa Africa Central Reservations OfficePlot 96-98, 5th Street Industrial Area | Ph: +256 (0) 312 260260/1, | +256 (0) 414 255992 Email: [email protected] | www.marasa.net
This Five Star lodge is the gem in Uganda’s tourism crown, with breath-taking panoramic views of the Nile at its doorstep
Located on a peninsula linking Lake Edward with Lake George within the heart of the Queen Elizabeth National Park you are sure to enjoy its amazing sweeping views.
Overlooking one of nature’s best kept secrets, the River Nile, Paraa Safari Lodge, located in the North West of Uganda offers a unique blend of comfort, relaxation and old world charm.
Located in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in western Uganda, Silverback Lodge is known for its Mountain Gorilla treks and its magnificent views.
OUR CONTRIBUTORSJacque Tibiwa, Jerry O.Were, Ngabire Emmanuel & Manu Gome
DISTRIBUTIONThe Eye Rwanda & Burundi is distributed to all major hotels, diplomatic missions, major supermarkets, airlines, tour operators, travel agencies, Kigali international Airport, restaurants, guest houses, Golf clubs in Kigali and Bujumbura, coffee shops, casinos, shopping centers, Banks and selected advertising agencies. The magazine is also distributed at selected centers in Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Dubai and to all Rwandan Embassies abroad.
Print Order 10,000 Copies
Please Note:While reasonable precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of advice and information provided; neither The Eye, nor its advertisers, nor printers can accept responsibility for any damages or inconvenience that may arise therefrom. The views expressed within the magazine are those of the author exclusively and not necessarily those of The Eye. Any material sent to us will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and will be subject to The Eye’s unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially.
STAYArt Galleries, Automotive, Bookshops, Boutiques, Breweries, Car Shades, etc..
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USEFUL INFORMATION 15 & 18-19
USEFUL INFORMATION 74
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1. Artwork Format: (Artwork must always be in press quality pdf format)2. Size of Artwork: (The delivered artwork must be the same size as the Rate Card specifications)3. Colour Mode/Filtration of Artwork: (The work must always be in CMYK)4. Type of Black Text: (Black text must always be in true black and not register in all colours)5. Text Windows: (Black text must not create windows)6. Fonts: (All fonts used in the document must be embedded)7. Photo Quality: (The photos must be right resolution minimum of 200 dpi, CMYK for colourversions and gray scaled pictures for B/W and look right at 100% without pixilation)8. Crop Marks: (All artwork must always come in as a pdf format)
Tucked away in the riverine forest on the edge of Lake Ihema this small, private lodge offers seven spacious, en-suite tents, dotted along the forested lakes’ edge. Sheltered by large trees and swaying palms, the lodge is a cool, calm and quiet retreat in the spectacular setting of Akagera National Park. The tents are located along a boardwalk
lartnec dehctaht a fo edis rehtie gnihctertslounge, bar, and dining area. A deck along a short boardwalk overlooks the lake; an ideal place to sit with a sundowner, around a cosy campfire.Inside each tent is a comfortable queen or large twin beds and a private bathroom with hot and cold running water. The camp has been designed to sit gracefully within its natural surroundings, and is entirely powered by solar.
For bookings and more information:Phone: +250 (0) 787 11 33 00 Email: [email protected]: www.ruzizilodge.com
Welcome to Ruzizi Tented Lodge
“Beautiful setting ...delicious food... some of the best customer
service I have experienced in Rwanda... ”
Rwanda
EditorialFriends,Every once in long time you come across
a person or a place that is nothing short of mind-blowing in its beauty. In
our lead story this issue, we bring you one such place: Rwiza Village will undoubtedly take your breath away. We share with you the owner’s interesting philosophy on ‘Good neighborliness’ and how he is attempting to thrive in business by working together with the local community.
We also introduce you to Rwanda’s National Ethnographic Museum and tell you the story of Hotel Faucon where a racist establishment was put in line by an angry king.
In our Burundi section, we bring you-straight from the president himself- an invitation to all golfers and lovers of the game to pay a visit to the Bujumbura Golf Club. Trust me;
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you will love playing on this tranquil course.Finally, we introduce you to Gitega town, fondly known as ‘Burundi’s second city’. Set high up in the hills, it is a beehive of activity, with plenty of interesting tourist spots and a luxurious yet affordable hotel near the city centre- Tropitel-Gitega Hotel. Come take a ride with us as we explore one of Burundi’s most exciting towns.
In case you have any comments, complaints or queries, please reach us on any of our contacts listed to the left of this page.
We hope you enjoy reading this issue of the Eye Magazine as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you.
Dominic
Akagera Aviation Ltd.
Vantage PointExperience the region from our point of view tel +250 (0) 788 308 382
Rwanda, popularly known as a land of a thousand hills is a stable East
African country, easily accessible from Kenya and Uganda. It is relatively easy, safe and simple to travel around. It is landlocked, surrounded by Uganda to the north, Tanzania to the east Burundi to the south, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west. It has five volcanoes, twenty-three lakes and numerous rivers, some forming the source of the River Nile.The country lays 75miles south of the Equator, 880miles west of the Indian Ocean and 1250miles east of the Atlantic Ocean-literally in the heart of Africa.
ABOUT RWANDA
Government
Rwanda is a Presidential unitary Republic that is based upon a multiparty
system governed under the constitution that was adopted in 2003 replacing the transitional constitution that was put in place in 1994. The President of Rwanda is the Head of State and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. Among his other responsibilities are powers to create policy, administer government agencies, exercise the prerogative of mercy, negotiate and ratify treaties, etc. The President is elected by popular vote every seven years, and appoints the Prime Minister and members of Cabinet. The Rwandan Parliament is composed of two chambers, namely the Senate and the lower chamber-the Chamber of Deputies serving 5 year terms.
The members of the Senate are selected by a variety of bodies and they serve eight-year terms. Rwanda has low corruption levels and the constitution provides for an Ombudsman whose duties include prevention and fighting of corruption. There is an existing policy of zero torrelance to corruption and any corrupt tendencies are handled seriously. The current constitution divides Rwanda into provinces, districts, cities, municipalities, towns, sectors and cells with each subdivision and its borders established by Parliament. The five provinces act as intermediaries between the national government and their constituent districts to ensure that national policies are implemented at the district level.
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Currency
The national currency is Rwandan Franc (RWF). As at the end of February 2014, 1 US Dollar (USD) was equivalent to Frw 689. The smallest-value note is a 500 RWF note,
which is the smallest note in physical size, as well. There are also notes in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000 RWF, with the larger notes becoming slightly larger in physical size. There are no notes over 5,000 RWF. Since few places in Rwanda accept credit cards, travelers need to carry cash if traveling outside of Kigali, especially if staying longer than a few days. The smallest value coin is 1 RWF. However the commonly used smallest value coin is 100 RWF. It is common for most businesses in Rwanda, including currency exchangers and gas stations, to round transactions to the nearest 100 RWF. There are ATMs all over Kigali, in every bank branch. Depending on your bank, this can be a much cheaper way to get francs because the ATMs use a much better exchange rate than currency exchanges.
Geography and Climate
Mountains dominate central and western Rwanda; these mountains
are part of the East African Rift Valley. The highest peak which is also Rwanda’s highest point is Mount Karisimbi. The temperature average 24-27° C (generally 30° C in the daytime and minimum 15° C at night, though often much colder in the mountains where snow and frost occur). Visit Nyungwe Forest if you would like to experience “winter” in tropical Africa. The rainfall averages 900-1,600 mm per pa. Rainy seasons are normally February to April, November to January although there have been some weather pattern changes recently. The vegetation ranges from dense equatorial forest in the Southwest to tropical savannah in the east. Economically Rwanda largely produces tea, coffee, sugar, fish and cut flowers. It also has natural resources of such as tin, gold, natural gas and tanzanite. Being in the Albertan region there is a likelihood of other natural resources that may be in the interest of investors.
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Belgium, Rue de Nyarugenge, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 575551-3. Fax: +250 252 573995. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.diplomatie.be/kigali
British High Commission, Boulevard de l’Umuganda, Parcelle no 1131, Kacyiru Sud, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 556000. Fax: +250 252 582044. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.ukinrwanda.fco.gov.uk. (BHC normal working hours are Mon-Thurs 0800-1700 and Friday 0800-1200. Visa section opens from Mon-Fri 900-1100)
Burundi, 4 Rue de Ntararuka, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 517529-30 / +250 252 575512.
USA, 2657 Avenue de la Gendarmerie, Kacyiru, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 596400. Fax: +250 252 596771 / +250 252 596591. Email: [email protected].
ETHIOPIAIf coming from a country where there is no Ethiopian mission, you can acquire a visa at entry points. Multiple visas are offered for tourists staying longer than 3 months and prices begin at US$20. Transit visas are available for visitors staying 72 hours or fewer. A valid passport and passport-sized photo are required to obtain a visa. Ethiopian visas can take up to 5 business days to process.
UGANDATravellers from COMESA nations and some island nations do not need visas to visit Uganda. For all others, visas can be obtained at entry points, starting at a 3-month visa for US$50. Multiple entry visas are available for stays of 6 months or longer. When ordering your visas ahead of time, please allow 2 business days for processing.
TANZANIAResidents of Commonwealth countries (except India, Nigeria, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
and the UK) do not require visas to Tanzania. Neither do citizens of Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Ireland, Romania, Rwanda and Hong Kong. Visas, which also allow entry into Zanzibar, can be obtained at entry points. Visa fees begin at US$30. Transit visas last up to 3 weeks and 3-month visas are renewable.
BURUNDINationals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and Rwanda do not need visas to visit Burundi. Travellers from countries where Burundi does not have diplomatic representation and travellers going to another country within 72 hours can obtain visas at entry points. Validity of visas is subject to the discretion of the Immigration Department. Visa prices begin at US$80, with an added $10 fee for transit travellers. For more information please see the Burundi section.
KENYAKenya Airways has made visa application forms available on their website for visitors to Kenya. By visiting www.kenya-airways.com, travellers can download visa applications for processing at any of Kenya’s entry points. Citizens of most African countries do not need visas to enter Kenya. Lists of those who do not need visas can be found on Kenya’s government website. Kenya offers transit (maximum of 7 days, US $20), single entry (US$50) and multiple entry (one year - US$110) visas. Single entry visas permit travel to Uganda, Tanzania and re-entry into Kenya. Travel elsewhere, i.e. Rwanda, will forfeit this.
REPUBLIC OF THE CONGOCitizens of Gabon do not require visas to enter Congo, but Congolese nationals who are also citizens of other countries do require visas if travelling on their other passport. Visa fees for touring and business travellers are US$70 for 15 days, US$100 for one month and US$180 for three months (business only). All visas are multiple entry visas.
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGOVisas are required by all travellers except transit passengers staying up to 48 hours. Visas can be obtained at entry points and begin at US$70.
Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority, Tel: +250 252 583441 (information desk)Kigali International Airport is open 24 hours.
C O N T A C T S Y O U M I G H T N E E D
DISCLAIMER: Every effort has been made to provide you with the most current and accurate information at the time of printing, June 2014.
All park info courtesy the Rwanda Office of Tourism and National Parks: www.rwandatourism.com
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK.
Set at a relatively low altitude on the border with Tanzania, Akagera National Park could scarcely be more different in mood to the breezy cultivated hills that characterise much
of Rwanda. Dominated scenically by the labyrinth of swamps and lakes that follow the meandering course of the Akagera River, the most remote source of the Nile, this is archetypal African savannah landscape of tangled acacia woodland interspersed with open grassland.
Akagera is, above all, big game country! Herds of elephant and buffalo emerge from the woodland to drink at the lakes, while lucky visitors might stumble across a leopard, a spotted hyena or even a stray lion. Giraffe and zebra haunt the savannah, and more than a dozen
types of antelope inhabit the park, most commonly the handsome chestnut-coated impala, but also the diminutive oribi and secretive bushbuck, as well as the ungainly tsessebe and the world’s largest antelope, the statuesque Cape eland.
Camping alongside the picturesque lakes of Akagera is a truly mystical introduction to the wonders of the African bush. Pods of 50 hippopotami grunt and splutter throughout the day, while outsized crocodiles soak up the sun with their vast jaws menacingly agape. Magically, the air is torn apart by the unforgettable duetting of a pair of fish eagles, asserting their status as the avian monarchs of Africa’s waterways. Lining the lakes are some of the continent’s densest concentrations of waterbirds, while the connecting arshes are the haunt of the endangered and exquisite papyrus gonolek and the bizarre shoebill stork - the latter perhaps the most eagerly soght of all African birds.
NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK Nyungwe National Park is a very rare and important habitat for many species, especially primates and birds. And at over 1000 square kilometers, Nyungwe is Africa’s largest protected mountain rainforest.
With about 310 bird species, 26 of which are endemic, Nyungwe is one of the most important and still undiscovered — bird watching destinations in Africa. Reaching to almost 3000 meters above sea level with Mount Bigugu the highest point in the Park, Nyungwe’s forests extend to altitudes occupied by few other forests in Africa.
Nyungwe is also home to one of Africa’s greatest concentrations of chimpanzees and a sometimes noisy, acrobatic
National Parks
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combination of other primates such as Ruwenzori colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys.
A variety of hiking and walking trails criss-cross the Park leading to a canopy walk, primate tracking adventures, the southernmost source of the Nile and ecotourism attractions. The park includes a colorful array of orchids, butterflies, moths and other insects.The beauty cannot be fully expressed on paper; you just have to plan a trip across the majestic hills of southeast Rwanda.
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK“In the heart of Central Africa, so high up that you shiver more than you sweat,” wrote the eminent primatologist Dian Fossey, “are great, old volcanoes towering up almost 15,000 feet, and nearly covered with rich, green rainforest - the Virungas”. Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, the Parc des Volcans protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain range - home of the rare mountain gorilla - and the rich mosaic of montane ecosystems, which embrace evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath.
An exhilarating trek through the cultivated foothills of the Virungas offers stirring views in all directions. Then, abruptly, the trail enters the national park, immersing trekkers in the mysterious intimacy of the rainforest, alive with the calls of colourful birds and chattering of the rare golden monkey, and littered with fresh spoor of the mountains’ elusive populations of buffalo and elephant. Through gaps in the forest canopy, the magnificent peaks are glimpsed, easily accessible and among the highest in Africa, beckoning an ascent.
GOLDEN MONKEYSIn the Volcano National Park there are now fullyhabituated Golden Monkeys and they are accessible to tourists since June 2003
MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREKKINGA silverback (mature male) weighs nearly three times as much as the average man (up to 200kg). The Mountain Gorilla is a distinct species from its cousin the western lowland gorilla and was unknown to western science until 1902.
Gorillas share 97% of their genes with mankind. They are highly sociable, moving in troops of between 5 - 50 animals typically comprising a silverback, three or four wives and several young.
Females reach sexual maturity in their eighth year, males when they are around 13. Gorillas have few natural enemies and can live for up to 50 years in the wild. A female gorilla has a similar gestation period to humans, and may raise up to six offspring if she lives to old age. Gorillas spend most of their waking hours on the ground, but sleep in trees, each building itself a temporary nest.
All park info courtesy the Rwanda Office of Tourism and National Parks: www.rwandatourism.com
GORILLA WATCHING ETIQUETTE
Gorillas are very susceptible to human illnesses, so always wash your hands before you visit them. If you feel unwell or carry a contagious disease, stay behind. • Turn your head away if you need to sneeze; never spit in the forest.• Stay in a tight group when near the gorillas, speaking only in whispers.• Don’t eat or drink near them, nor leave any rubbish.• For your safety and their health keep seven metres away from the gorillas, but stay still if they approach you. Never touch a gorilla.• Although non-aggressive, they are wild animals and can sometimes charge. If this happens, crouch down, don’t look them in the eye and wait for them to pass.• Rash photography is forbidden. Point-and-shoot cameras are inadvisable as picture quality will be poor in these conditions and the flash can go off inadvertently.
My visit is unpredictable - be prepared to be patient.
Air Uganda (U7), Avenue de la Paix, UTC Building, Office No 26, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 577926 / +250 252 577928. Mobile: +250 788 380926/ +250 722 926926. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.air-uganda.com. (SEE AD PAGE 90)
Brussels Airlines (SN), Hotel des Mille Collines, Ground Floor entrance, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 575290 / +250 252 575294. Fax: +250 252 573082. Email: salesrwanda@brusselsairlines. Website: www.brusselsairlines.com.
Ethiopian Airlines (ET), Avenue de la Paix, UTC Building, Office No 25, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 570440 / +250 252 570442. Fax: +250 252 570441. Email: [email protected] / [email protected]. Website: www.ethiopianairlines.com.
Kenya Airways Ltd (KQ), Avenue de la Paix, UTC Building, Ground Floor, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 501652 / +250 252 577972 / +250 252 501652. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.kenya-airways.com.
HORIZON COACHES:Horizon (Rwanda) Terminal is located below the Gisenyi Market at the main Taxi Park. Mobile: (Rwanda) +250 788 579 002. Mobile: (Uganda) +256 772 504565 / +256 772 428527. Routes: Gisenyi to Cyanika, Cyanika to Kisoro, Kisoro to Kabale, Kabale to Mbarara, Mbarara to Kampala
NB. The Bus leaves Gisenyi terminal between 4:00am and 5:00am. Email: [email protected]
STARWAYS:Starways Terminal is located in Nyabugogo at the main Taxi Park.Mobile: (Rwanda) +250 788 525186. Mobile: (Uganda) +256 772 407930. Tel: +256 41 4233030 (Uganda). Route 1: Kigali to Kampala, Kampala to Nairobi. Route 2: Kigali to Kampala, Kampala to KigaliInformation: Buses operate Monday-Sunday (including all Public Holidays). The to Nairobi bus leaves at 05:45Hrs and travels to Kampala then Nairobi. . On certain days the Bus departs from Kigali at 08:00am to Kampala, then departs Kampala to Kigali at 11:00am.
KAMPALA COACH:Kampala Coach Ltd Terminal is located Parking Nyabugogo & Kobil Petrol StationTel:0788358161/0783400303Email: [email protected]. Website: www.kampalacoach.com
Route 1: Kigali to Kampala, Kampala to Nairobi, Dar es Salaam to Juba. Route 2: Bujumbura (Burundi) to Kigali, Kigali to Kampala, Kampala to Nairobi, Dar es Salaam to Juba.
Information: Buses operate Monday-Sunday (including all Public Holidays) at 5:00am Kigali to Nairobi via Kampala, 6:00am from Bujumbura to Kigali, 13:00pm from Kigali to Kampala and then it connects with the bus departing to Nairobi, Juba and Dar es Salaam.
JAGUAR EXECUTIVE COACH: Jaguar Executive Coach is located in Nyabugogo at the entrance to the main Taxi Park. Tel: 0789401499/0731791249
Route 1: Kigali to Kampala via Katuna border.Route 2: Kigali to Kampala via Kagitumba border. Information: The first two buses depart from Kigali to Kampala at 11:30 am via the Katuna and Kagitumba borders. The rest of the buses going through Katuna to Kampala depart at 06:00am, 7:00am and 9:00am.The last bus departing from Kigali to Kampala via Kagitumba is at 6:30hrs
OTHER BUS COMPANIES:Atraco Express, Rue Mont Kabuye.Belverde Lines Agence De Voyage Office; Kigali-rwa, EX-NAHV, Mobile: +250 788565081, Office; Bujumbura-adi, Odeon Palace, Tel :+257 79976015, Email: [email protected] Bus Company, Nyabugogo Taxi Park.Ontracom Express, Nyamirambo Street, Tel: +250 252571241Stella Express, Tel: 0788657070/0788455906Email:[email protected], B.P 5634Virunga Ponctuel Express, Tel: 08510873 (Ruhengeri), Mobile: +250 78597788 (Gisenyi) Mobile: +256 788431960 (Kigali)
Enjoy fascinating views from the top of Kigali and remarkable hospitality at the legendary hotel of Rwanda. Indulge yourself in culinary experiences from casual to fine dining, from international to signature dishes, accompanied by entertaining live music.
The water ripples gently over the lake’s surface, while in the distance bare-chested fishermen
row into the sunset in their small boat. From some hidden bush, the laughter of children playing and the joyful chirping of birds are the only sounds that break the perfect quiet. The view is simply breathtaking. If paradise were a place, this would be it.
Perched on a hill overlooking the stunningly beautiful Lake Kivu, Rwiza village is the perfect getaway. As far as the eye can see, the land seems virgin and untamed, the air smells pure and fresh and the water of the lake is limpid and clear.
Located about 4km from the centre of the hill town of Kibuye, Rwiza village is the brainchild of Mr. Deo Musabyimana.
Deo established the place in 2008 with the aim of creating a serene place where guests could come to relax, drink in the beautiful scenery and get
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in touch with nature.In total, Rwiza village consists of nine
independent cottages, each of them self contained and fully furnished with materials and furniture made by local artisans. The grass thatched structures are all built to blend perfectly with the surrounding landscape.
It also has a general restaurant area that has two huts, each having a built-in concrete table and sitting area that can allow a group of more than ten people to share a meal. On a deck just beside the huts are chairs and tables set out in modern restaurant setting. The rest of the space on the deck is set out with wooden recliners for those who wish to sit back and read a good book or just watch the sun set over the lake.
The menu at Rwiza’s restaurant is quite simple, concentrating on popular specials that range from basic foreign dishes, through recipes from neighbouring African countries (try out the Chicken Yassa) to local Rwandan favourites such as brochette (roasted meat) and birayi (grilled Irish potatoes).
“The idea is that although our menu may not be that wide, every dish on the menu is available at all times can be prepared anytime a customer orders for it,” explains Deo.
Working with the communityBesides its lavish beauty, one reason to visit Rwiza village is the owner’s commitment to lifting up the surrounding community by partnering with locals on various projects.
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For instance, local artisans were hired to build the village’s structures and furnish the cottages; women from the community are involved in making the traditional crafts like mats and baskets on display; most of the food cooked in the restaurant is bought from locals, and the boats that take the tourists for rides on the lake are owned by the villagers. In addition, apart from the Manager, all the staff employed at Rwiza village hail from within this community.
Far from seeing this practice as exceptional on his part, Deo simply sees this as good neighbourliness.
“There is a saying in French that goes, ‘You can choose your friends, but you don’t choose your neighbours.’ And so we have to be on good terms with our neighbours. Our philosophy is that Rwiza village can only be
truly successful if it helps to improve the livelihoods of the people in the surrounding community,” he says.
Things to do at Rwiza VillageThere are a number of fun things to do at Rwiza village depending on your preferences and how much time you have:
Swimming: Most definitely one of the coolest things you can do at Rwiza village is to plunge into the crystal clear waters of the fresh lake below and take a leisurely swim alone or with friends. After swimming you can lie down and bask in the sun as you enjoy the scenery and listen to the chirping of birds.
Hiking and Bird watching: Speaking of birds, Kibuye is home to a number
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Panoramic View: Each cottage has a breath-taking view of the lake below and the hills in the distance.
Live museum: A member of the community weaves baskets at Rwiza Village as children look on. Visiting Rwiza also benefits the locals.
of rare bird species, and a major attraction at Rwiza village is the three-hour hiking trek through the village where you are likely to see a number of these rare birds. Currently the hikes are only organised on demand.
Boat Ride: For an up-close view of some of the nearby islands on the lake, some natives of Kibuye offer boat rides at an affordable price.
According to Deo, this is one way you can contribute to the local community.
“Rwiza village itself does not offer boat rides because there are already residents and neighbours of ours who offer
this service. This is one way in which we partner with the community, by recommending our guests to some of them for boat-rides. This way the locals can get a little income,” he explains.
Music by the fireplace: A guest favourite are the gatherings by the fireplace in the evenings where guests are treated to traditional music, stories and playing of local instruments.
Future plansAs if the place was not already amazing enough, Deo has a number of exciting plans that will make Rwiza village an even better experience. Some of these include; establishing a live museum where visitors can witness how local items such as baskets, mats and pottery are made.
He also plans to plant a garden of spices and herbs to be used in cooking food to be served at the restaurant so that all the meals are as fresh as possible.
“With time, it will also be possible to introduce our ‘From the garden
to your plate’ concept where guests will pick the food
and spices from the gardens below and participate (or
watch) as it is being prepared until it is
ready to eat,” shares Deo eagerly.Now, who said
Paradise couldn’t get better?
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Live museum: A member of the community weaves baskets at Rwiza Village as children look on. Visiting Rwiza also benefits the locals.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF RWANDA
The Eye Recommends
It has often been called the best museum in East Africa, and with good reason. Built in 1987, the National Museum of Rwanda
is a good source of information on the cultural history of the country. Absorbing displays of traditional artefacts, lit up by an eye-catching assortment of turn-of-the-century monochrome photographs, provide insights not only into pre-colonial lifestyles, but also into the successive development of Rwanda as a contemporary African state.
The museum is located in Huye district (formerly Butare), 135 km South West of Kigali, and comprises seven galleries.
Layout of the museumThe artefacts collection is historical, ethnographic, artistic and archaeological in nature.
Gallery I is at the entrance and consists of a ticket-counter and a gift shop where handicrafts, booklets and other items are sold. This room is also usually used for temporary displays. Exhibits are formed basing on topics that can awaken awareness in a particular circumstance or a given event.
Gallery II has maps, photos and other graphic displays that offer geographical and linguistic information concerning Rwanda.
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Both Galleries III and IV exhibit items used in several economic activities for example agriculture, cattle-breeding, bee-keeping, hunting and, fishing, basketry, pottery and wood carving.
Gallery V portrays several kinds of Rwandan architecture and social organisation.
Gallery VI mainly portrays traditional clothing, adornment, together with recreation.
Gallery VII presents a chronology of the Kings of Rwanda (Abami) based on written and oral history. There are also displays about the science of the extraction, working and properties of metals and their alloys, traditional religious practices, marriage and music.
The museum properly reflects the spirit at the end of the 19th Century
when the East African kingdoms came into contact with the first Europeans. The rich insights it gives into Rwanda’s traditional life and culture, along with the country’s subsequent growth during history, will give visitors a better understanding of African history.
(Internet Sources)
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STA
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AUTOMOTIVEALIGNMENTAutoXpress Rwanda, Rue De ’Lepargue, Nyarugenge, Kigali. Tel: +250 788 304210. Mobile: +250 783 216959. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.auto-xpress.com (SEE AD PAGE 3)Bandag, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 576808 / +250 252 574498. Email: [email protected].
CRAFT SHOPS East African Heritage, Boulevard de la revolution n0.14, Tel: 0788558995/0788305706Email: [email protected], Avenue de Karisimbi, MatewusiTel: 0788428013/0726601326Email: [email protected] Lounge, off Avenue Des Grands Lacs, Kiyovu, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 504051. Mobile: +250 788 513007.Treasures & Crafts, Avenue des Mille Collines, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 8535686.Zawadi Arts & Crafts, Avenue des Mille Collines, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 483555.
EDUCATIONSCHOOLS B.M.P. (Business Machines & Office Prodcuts), Avenue de la Justice, Tel: +250 252576749, Fax: +250 252576752, Compec Rwanda, Rue Kajangwe, Tel: +250 252 82279Ecole belge, Tel: +250 252 576635Grenn hills, Tel: +250 252 514395, Nyarutarama
UNIVERSITIES BUTAREUniversite Nationale du Rwanda (UNR)Tel: +250 252530053, 252530122, 252530921, Fax: +250 252530121, Email: [email protected], Website: www.nur.ac.rwCarnegie Mellon University RwandaTel: +250788624384
KIGALIIndependent Institute of Lay Adventists, Kigali.Tel:+250 252513710, +250 252586885Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kigali Campus, B.P. 3373, Kigali Rwanda, Email: [email protected]: +250 787 888 881/2, Website: www.jkuat.ac.keKigali Institute of Science & Technology and Management, Avenue de L’Armee, Tel: +250 252 574698, +250 252 574696, Fax: +250 252 571925. Email: [email protected], Website: www.kist.ac.rwKigali health institute, Avenue de l’armee Tel:+250 252572172. Fax: +250 252571787, Email: [email protected]. Website: www.khi.ac.rwKigali Independent University, Tel: +250 252502416/7/8/9, +250 25250246 /7/8/9, Fax: +250 252502422, Website: www.ulk.ac.rwKigali institue of education,Tel:+250 252513710, +250 252586885Nstitut superieur d”agriculture et elevage,Mobile: +250 788467895, Email:[email protected]
School of finance and banking (SFB) Tel: +250 252574302 , Fax: +250 252512521Universite adventiste d’afrique centrale (mudende), Tel: +250 252519779, Boulevard de l’umuganda
FURNITURE STORES Design Concept Limited, Tel: +250 786 098 484Email: [email protected] Sung (R) Ltd, Le Prestige Building, Gikondo, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 570283. Fax: 250 252 570284. Mobile: +250 788 302778. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.hwansung.comManumental, Avenue de la Paix, UTC Mall, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 573381/5 / +250 252 575673.M.O.L (R) Ltd, La Bonne Adresse House plot 5447 Boulevard de la Revolution, Kigali. Fax: +250 252 571974. Mutara Enterprise, Avenue de la Paix, UTC Mall, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 573530 / +250 252 5550006.Victoria Furnitures, Muhima (Next to Sadolin). Tel: +250 782 519595, Email: [email protected].
HAIR DRESSERS / BEAUTY PARLOURSAlpha Classic, Tel: +250 252 572662Beauty Centre, Tel: +250 252 578033Beauty House Salon, Tel: +250 252574426Blessing Salon, next to Okapi Hotel off the main
Roundabout in TownDeux Ciseaux, Tel: +250 252570282Gorillas Hotel Salon, Tel:+250 252501717 / 8Hotel Des Mille Collines Salon, Kigali.Mobile: +250 788 502333.KBC Vogue Salon, Kigali Business Centre, Lower Level, Kigali.Keza Salon, UTC Mall, Kigali.Kigali Serena Hotel Salon, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 5350070 / +250 788 524194.Laico Umubano Salon, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 5584042 / +250 788 644252. MTN Salon, MTN Centre, Top Floor, Nyarutarama, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 5102323. Mobile: +250 788 301820.Premier Nails & Spa, Kiyovu, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 470400 / +250 788 355633.Novotel Hotel Salon, Tel: 0788644252 Ntabwoba, Eugéne, Tel: +250252574342Ruth, Roving Masseuse, Tel: +250 788431855
HEALTHCLINICS Bio Medical Center, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 577492. Mobile: +250 788 305005 (Dr. Alphonse Karagirwa). Clinique Le Bon Samaritain, Plot 1, Rue Cyahafi (below Ecole Belge), Kigali. Tel: +250 252 573552. Mobile: +250 788 503434 (Dr. Jean Baptiste Gasasira) Clinique Liberte, Tel: +250 252 507063Clinique Ophtalmologique, Tel: +250 252 571143.De la Charité, Tel: +250 252 518248Dr. Nyst Clinic, Belgian Embassy, Rue de Nyarugenge, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 575874 / +250 252 575551 Ext 223. Mobile: +250 788300353 (Dr. Vincent Large) E-Health, Ministry of Health, Kigali, Rwanda. Tel: +250 788 307320 Faith Clinic, Avenue de la Paix, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 570296.Hospital Roi Faycale, Tel: +250 252 82421 / +250 252 85397. Fax: +250 252 570184Kigali Medical imaging and Supplies Centre, Tel: +250 252 504408. Mobile: +250 788 520192. Email: [email protected] Croix du Sud, Avenue de la justice (Nyilinkwaya) Tel: +250 252 518059 Polyclinique du Plateau, Boulevard de la Revolution, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 572125 / +250 252 578767. Mobile: +250 788 301630 (Dr Rose Uwicyeza). Fax: +250 252 578885.
DENTISTS Advanced Dental Centre, Ground Floor, DV Apart-
MARKETS Nyarugenge Market, Between Avenue du Commerce, Rue du Marche and Rue de L’Epargne.Nyabugogo Market, Nyabugogo taxi park uphill towards the city centre.Remera Market, Use the Kimironko taxis from the central bus park.
MOBILE PHONES Alink Technologies S.A.R.L, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 625529 / +250 750 800888. Email: [email protected], UTC Building, Avenue de la Paix, Kigali. Mobile: +250 783 677565 / +250 785 145310 (shop). Email: [email protected].
Authorized Service Contractor for UPS
Hôtel des Mille Collines - Kigali (Rwanda)+250 (0)252 576 136
THE KING’S WAR:The story of Hotel Faucon and how a Rwandan King’s fury destroyed Racism
By Manu Gome
It was the very first hotel in Rwanda. It was also the scene of one of the most transformative events
in Rwanda and Burundi’s history and a major spur for the then fledgling independence movement.
Located right in the centre of Rwanda’s Huye district, Hotel Faucon’s
interesting history makes it a must-vist for anyone interested in Rwanda’s story.
History of a Whites-only HotelAt the very spot where the hotel stands was a building in which the Belgian royal couple stayed during the colonial era. After it was destroyed by fire, a hotel was rebuilt in its place by the building’s owner, Mr. Faucon, in 1943.
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History Series
Historical site: Hotel Faucon in Huye district was the scene of a major confrontation between Rwanda’s King Rudahigwa and colonial racism
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In its day, Hotel Faucon was the very definition of luxury. It was also a whites-only establishment and was a favourite entertainment destination for the (then white) administrators of colonial Ruanda-Urundi. Here they could come and relax after the rigours of the week’s work.
As was common in Apartheid South Africa, just outside the hotel was a signpost that read: “ENTRY FORBIDDEN TO BLACKS AND TO DOGS”.
Thus the officialdom of colonialism could kick back and chill without being disturbed by any of the people they were trying to ‘civilise’.
A King’s Fury
This little racist club was to receive a rude kick in the rear when it encountered the wrath of a King. The story goes that once, in 1955 King Rudahigwa of Rwanda was returning from a visit to neighbouring Burundi, when he came to the classy Hotel Faucon. Pleased to find a hotel that he had not been to, the tired King ordered his retinue to stop so that they could rest at the hotel awhile.
On approaching the off-white
The bar area at Hotel Faucon (above) and (below) one of the bedrooms in the Royal suite at Hotel Faucon.
hotel building, the king and his men were stopped in their tracks by the bold words, printed in French, on the signpost right at the hotel’s entrance:
“ENTRY FORBIDDEN TO BLACKS AND TO DOGS”.
The King was furious! In a rage, he stormed into the hotel, leaving the startled gateman paralysed with fear. In the shade at the hotel’s entrance, the few patrons who sat sipping their refreshments for the day looked up from their drinks and cigars to find themselves face to face with the royal rage.
For, it is said, King Rudahigwa ordered his men to beat up all the white people at the hotel who had dared to compare his people to dogs in their own country.He then demanded that the hotel open its doors to any black people who wanted, and could afford to use its services, thus effectively removing the race barrier that management had erected at the hotel.
From 1962, when Rwanda got its independence, to this day, Hotel Faucon has been owned and run by Rwandan nationals.
The King’s ChambersTo put a symbolic, royal stamp on the historic upheaval that he had caused in this colonial outpost of privilege, King Rudahigwa moved to ensure a permanent black presence at the hotel. The King commandeered what we would now call “the Presidential Suite” of the hotel for his own use whenever he was in the area.
The King’s chambers stand separate from the rest of the hotel. On entering, one is welcomed by a preserved setting of the living room as it used to be when it was in use by the king. In the centre of the room is a set of two chairs with a small table (said to be the original used by the King) in the middle. The Suite also contains a sizeable bathroom, and two bedrooms, a smaller one for one of the King’s guests, and a larger room where the monarch slept. The royal bed is still intact.
Sleep like Royalty Today, it is possible not only to visit The King’s Chambers at Hotel Faucon, but also to rent the actual King’s suite for the night and live, if only briefly, in the same space that was transformed by this revolutionary King. Sadly, this historic hotel, although quite well preserved, is not in the best shape and may not meet basic international hotel standards. However, it remains a place worth visiting if only for its historic significance.
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Royal Chambers: The entrance to the suite at Hotel Faucon where King Rudahigwa slept on his visits to the area.
STEAK HOUSE (BARBEQUED FOOD)Kigali Hot Racks Bar & Resto, Plot 728, Rue de lac Mpanga, Kiyovu, Kigali. Mobile: +250 783 115554. Email: [email protected].
THAI Thai Jazz Restaurant et Traiteur, Kimihurura, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 202027 / +250 758 202027. Email: [email protected].
OTHERFAST FOOD Amy’s Taxi Station, Downtown, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 517004Baba’s, Kigali Business Centre, Kacyiru, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 589786BCK Fast Food, Near Isimbi Hotel. Cercle Sportif, Across from Saint Exupéry, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 574070Grill Marks, kacyiru near the National Library and behind the US Embassy, Mobile: +250 787 613 018.Healthy me juice bar, Tennis Club avenue, Gishushu, Phone +250 788301526Email: [email protected] Poseidon, Town Centre, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 501564Lil Vegas Kigali (New Africa Gaming), Avenue Karisimbi, Tel: +250 782 332426, Mobile: +250 788 356069. Email: [email protected] Farms, (Papyrus Restaurant), Kimihurura, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 308970. Website: www.masakafarms.comMr Chips Fast Food and Takeaway, (next to Rwanda Tourism University), Sonatube, Kigali.Sopetrad, Main Street Kiyovu, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 573953.
LATE NIGHT BITES Masaka Farms, (Papyrus Restaurant), Kimihurura, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 308970. Website: www.masakafarms.com
PARTY TIMEBARS Chez Lando, Corner of ICTR Street & Airport Road, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 582050 / +250 252 584328. Fax: +250 252 584380.Chez Robert, Plot 12 Ntaruka Avenue, Kiyovu, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 575573. Mobile: +250 788 307516.Crystal View Bar, Cocktail Lounge & Restaurant, Top Floor, Top Tower Hotel, Kacyiru, Kigali.Tel: +250 252 585555. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.toptowerhotel.com Down Town Restaurant, Plot 1, Revolution Avenue, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 841375 / +250 788 722087. Email: [email protected] Restaurant and Bar, Tel: +250 252 500234. Mobile: +250 788 486581 / +250 782 269333. Email: [email protected],ground floor Kubaho Plaza, Umuganda Boulevard, Kacyiru, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 355 407Kigali Hot Racks Bar & Resto, Rue de lac Mpanga, Kiyovu, Kigali. Mobile: +250 783 115554. Email: [email protected] Pichet, Butamwa Avenue, Kiyovu, Kigali. Mobile: +25 784 343133 / +250 78 8841265. Email: [email protected] Plein Midi, Behind Chez Lando, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 574718.Le Must Pub, Plot 1032 Bigogwe road, Kiyovu, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 5005491 / +250 788 308188. Lil Vegas Kigali (New Africa Gaming), Avenue Karisimbi, Tel: +250 782 332426, Mobile: +250 788 356069. Email: [email protected] Bar & Grill, Kimihurura, Kigali. Mobile: +250 782 208824. Email: [email protected] Bar, Tel: +250 252 583497O’Connells Bar and Roof Terrace, (The Manor), Nyarutarama, Kigali. Mobile: 250 727 690030. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.themanorrwanda.com. One Love Bar, Kimihurura-Kimicanga, Kigali.
Planet, Kigali Business Centre, Kimihurura, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 683043 Papyrus Lounge, Kimihurura, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 417820. Email: [email protected]. Website: papyruslounge.comRepublika Lounge, off Avenue des Grands Lacs, Kiyovu, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 303030Rosty Club (Resto & Bar), Mob: +250 788308832/0788505799, Email:[email protected], Webiste: www.rostyclub.comThe Lounge Bar (Mama Africa Restaurant), Kimihurura, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 300386 / +250 788 309412. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.mamafricarestaurant.com.Virunga Sports Bar, MTN Centre, Nyarutarama, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 300005 / +250 788 307250
CASINOS Casino Kigali, Top Tower Hotel, Umuganda Boulevard, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 306959. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.casinokigali.com (SEE AD OBC & 65)
CLUBS Black & White Club, (Alfa Palace Hotel), Remera, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 525960Cadillac Club, Kimihurura, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 511622. Email: [email protected] Club, Top Floor, Top Tower Hotel, Kacyiru, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 585555. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.toptowerhotel.com Le Must Pub, Plot 1032 Bigogwe Road, Kiyovu, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 5005491 / +250 788 308188. One Love Bar, Kimihurura-Kimicanga, Kigali. Planet, Kigali Business Centre, Kimihurura, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 683043 Papyrus Lounge, Kimihurura, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 308970. Email: [email protected]. Website: papyruslounge.comSky Hotel, Avenue de la Justice, Gitega, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 503881. Mobile: +250 788 300323 / +250 783 526914. Email: [email protected]. Website: wwwskyhotelrw.net.
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THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS Bambino Super City, Kabuga, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 512246 / +250 788 300013. Email: [email protected] Printemps, (behind Amahoro Stadium), Kigali. Tel: +250 252 58214
GORILLA & CHIMPANZEE TRACKING All permits to visit the mountain gorillas and Golden Monkeys are booked through the Rwanda Tourism Board offices (ORTPN) in Kigali or Ruhengeri. Rwanda Tourism Board, Plot 1, Boulevard de la Révolution, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 576514 / +250 252 573396. Fax: +250 252 576515. Email: [email protected]
HEALTH CLUBS/GYMS Cercle Sportif, Kigali Serena Hotel, Boulevard de la Revolution, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 597100. Kim Health Club, Kigali. Mobile: +250 788 516303.Hotel Des Mille Collines, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 576530. Fax: +250 252 576541.Laico Umubano Hotel, Umuganda Boulevard, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 593500. Fax: +250 252 582957.Email: [email protected]. Website: www.laicohotels.com.Nyarutarama Tennis Club, Nyarutarama, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 587009. Email: [email protected] Health Club, Kigali. Tel: +250 252 510388 / +250 252 577024
Very often, the things you remember as you leave a new place are very different from what you expected
when you first arrived. Visitors often come for the ‘big things’, what makes news outside. When they leave, they have fond memories of the ‘small’ things. The common, everyday things.
So you came to Rwanda with (for most people at least) only a couple of things in mind: Mountain Gorillas and the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
But when you eventually leave, what things will stick with you?
The Eye Magazine brings you a list of seven little, everyday things that you will probably remember every time you think of the Land of a Thousand Hills:
1. Brochette: This is a must-have offering for any visitor to Rwanda.
Brochette is basically a skewer on which chunks of meat
(beef, goat or fish) , separated with onions or green pepper are roasted. What makes it special is the unique
flavouring that gives it a distinctive taste. If you
are lucky to get really good, soft, juicy brochette (try it out
at Hotel des Mille Collines, Chez Lando, Chapter One bar, among many others), you will find yourself wondering how you got by without it in the past.
2.Taxi-moto: Move over, taxi cab; move over, public van. You are no
match for the ‘moto’. Motos are the sleek commercial transport motorbikes that will shuttle you from one end of Kigali to the next in a matter of minutes. Because most visitors to Rwanda don’t have cars of their own, motos are the easiest and most convenient way to get around. If you stay more than a couple of days in Rwanda, you will most likely use a
moto; and you will not forget the experience.
3.The BIG beers: Most
Rwandans have no idea why the size of the typical beer bottle in Rwanda is so fascinating for foreigners. Truth is, odds are that five in six vistors to Rwanda have only encountered the 33cl (small) or 50cl (standard) beer bottles that are the norm almost everywhere else. No wonder the 65cl and
SURPRISING MEMORIES YOU WILL TAKE FROM
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72cl beer bottles that are the standard in Rwanda are impossible to forget. Most beer lovers will remember the moment they first came across these giant bottles. For the beer enthusiasts, they probably felt like they had died and gone to beer heaven. Who can forget a trip to heaven?
4.The dancers: One of the most memorable things about Rwanda is
its people’s cultural dance. On the one hand are the women,
who dance gracefully with delicate swaying
of the hands and elegant footwork. Then there is the warriors’ dance (Intore dance)
where men combine intricate choreography
with unbridled masculine aggressiveness. The dancers move from side to side stomping and swaying and jumping in alternate rhythm, their heads jerking back and forth, a merry frenzy shining on their faces. Suddenly they stop, their arms outstretched, and let out blood-curdling battle cries....
No one who has seen this world-famous dance will forget it.
5.Umuganda: If you are in Rwanda on the last Saturday of the month,
you will be sure to notice that from 8 am to about midday, everything comes to a grinding halt. This is Umuganda day.
Umuganda is a special communal activity peculiar to Rwanda where shops and other businesses are all closed as community members come together to contribute physical labour towards improving
their community. Normally it is some sort of cleaning or building exercise. And if you are lucky, you might bump into the President of Rwanda (President Paul Kagame) who often joins residents of different parts of the country to do Umuganda.
6.The Markets: There is something charming about Kigali’s big markets.
A visit to the markets, say at Kimironko or Kicukiro where you can buy almost any and all groceries and cultural objects is an interesting experience. Plus, you get to haggle with the amiable market ladies (and gents) until you come to a price that’s fair for both parties. In its own way, this simple experience leaves a pleasant yet indelible mark.
7.The smiles: No matter how hard you try, the memory of Rwanda’s tragic
history will somehow condition you to expect Rwandans
to be sad and gloomy people. That is why
the warm smiles and hospitality of the people are so unforgettable.
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BU
SINESS
around 10:00 am, we got the eagerly awaited alert, “We are departing from Kigali airport and will be landing in about 35 minutes”, uttered the pilot. We quickly organized ourselves and got ready. Within minutes, the welcome team was ready and standing by the helipad complete with our signature welcome drinks and warm towels. We had also been informed by the travel agent that the client was very ‘petty, complaining about stuff like not having extra pillows and an extension cable in the room’. For us, this was a grand opportunity, not only to look at that as a petty issue, but an opportunity to anticipate the guest needs by having extra pillows and an electric extension cable in her room.
When she eventually landed, she found a happy smiley team waiting for her to walk out of the chopper that had brought her, I then moved forward, gazing straight at her eyes while flashing a delightful smile. “Welcome to Nyungwe Forest Lodge Mrs Sinclair, I am Jerry, the General Manager, then I went on to introduce her to the rest of the team members who had joined me in welcoming her.
“Wow!!, this is amazing, I really feel like a royalty”, she said and almost immediately prompted a response from one of my colleagues who said , “ You are indeed a royalty, our queen to be precise”, that statement made her hug my
colleague, overwhelmed by emotion. The story continues in our next issue. I am sure you really want to know what exactly happened during her 5 days stay and the many other frequent visits that followed
this particular one.
The writer works as the General Manager of Nyungwe Forest Lodge, [email protected]
THE MEMORY MAKERA step by step approach to A+ Customer Service by Jerry O. Were
Continued from the March-May 2014 issue:
You can almost imagine what was going through my hitherto busy mind…..I reassured myself that it was a great opportunity for me and my delightful
team to put our customer service prowess to the test. For me, it was even more exciting given my previous experiences, I felt like I was always ready for one more challenge……perhaps more challenging than the previous one.
Shortly afterwards, I summoned my departmental heads and briefed them on everything that I thought was important for them to know, leaving out any details that could have made them develop funny ideas about the guest even before she arrived.
Keeping it real! “Let us accord Mrs. Sinclair our usual signature memorable service”, were my last words as I put the briefing to an end. One of my colleagues then retorted, “Should we upgrade her to VIP status?” what followed was a quick “No”, from me. “The point I am trying to make here is that we must always be authentic in our dealings with customers. Customers can easily tell when we are merely playing a part and when we are truly being ourselves. Most of us tend to abuse the authority to upgrade clients to VIP status by using it as a cover up for our lack of courage to face demanding customers and effectively cater for their needs. We tend to imagine that upgrading their status may soften them up and make them less demanding.
The Anticipated ArrivalThe following morning, at
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ACCOUNTANTS / AUDIT FIRMSDeloitte Rwanda Limited, 1st Floor Umoja
AGSFrasers_Rwanda_150X210_FR_EN.pdf 1 12/11/2013 07:34:21 AM
Welcome to
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BURUNDIABOUT BURUNDIBurundi is a landlocked country whose capital Bujumbura lies by the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Often called “the heart of Africa,” Burundi covers an area of 27,834 square kilometers and lies between 2º30’ and 4º30’ latitude South and between 28º50’ and 30º53’30’ longitude East. Bounded to the North by Rwanda, to the West by Democratic Republic of Congo, and to the East and South by Tanzania, Burundi is part of East African Community.
GOVERNMENTForm of Government is RepublicHead of State is the PresidentVoting qualification universal is 18 yrs of ageHighest Court is the Supreme Court Independence: July 1, 1962 (from Belgium). Constitution: A transitional constitution was adopted October 18, 2001. The parliament adopted a post-transition constitution on September 17, 2004, which was approved in a nationwide referendum held February 28, 2005. ECONOMYCurrency: used in Burundi are the Francs. Natural resources: Nickel, uranium, rare earth oxides, peat, cobalt, copper, platinum, vanadium, arable land, hydropower, niobium, tantalum, gold, tin, tungsten, kaolin, limestone. Primary sector Coffee, cotton, tea, corn, sorghum, sweet potatoes, bananas, manioc (tapioca), beef, milk, hides. Arable land (2009 est.)--35.57%. Secondary sector (2009 est.; 19% of GDP): Types--beverage production, coffee and tea processing, cigarette production, sugar refining, pharmaceuticals, light food processing, chemicals (insecticides), public works construction, consumer goods, assembly of imported components, light consumer goods such as blankets, shoes, soap.
CLIMATE AND TOPOGRAPHYBurundi has four topographical zones:The Rusizi plain, where the climate is tropical The Congo-Nile Ridge, where the climate is mild and temperate; this area includes the great secondary
forest of Kibira The central plateau, featuring rolling hills The depressions of the East and North-East, featuring tree-dotted savanna Burundi has a “moderate” tropical climate with average temperatures between 23 and 24ºC. This is a gift from nature to have such an average near the Equatorial area known for its heat and humidity. In Bujumbura city where it is hotter, average temperatures are about 25ºC.
Burundi has two seasons namely the dry season from June to September and the rainy season from February to May. The remaining time is made up of middle seasons- half-dry and half-rainy-with a short rainy season between September and December and a short dry season between January and February. The vegetation is lush and agriculture is one of the most important activities.
ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION Burundi is divided into 16 provinces including Bujumbura City and 116 communes. Each province is administrated by a Governor and each commune by an Administrator. It should be noted that Bujumbura City is administrated by a Mayor.
POPULATION The population of Burundi is currently estimated at around 8.1 million making it one of the countries with the highest population density in Africa. The population is however spread very unevenly: the central plateau and the highlands are the most heavily populated.
LANGUAGEThe cultural and linguistic uniformity of the country is one of the most striking features. Kirundi is the medium of expression of Burundi’s centuries-old cultural heritage. French is the first foreign language, which became an administrative language. English is progressively getting important because of the opening of the country to the business world and the international market. Swahili, a trade language above all, is spoken in the cities and along Tanganyika Lake.
POETRY AND POPULAR SONGSThe culture of Burundi is based mainly on song, poetry, the dance, stories and legends. Poetry is
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recited at late-night social gatherings; it is centered mostly around pastoral themes. Rich and varied popular songs are rendered at family and communal fêtes and festivals, and are sung during work in the fields.
The shepherds have their own pastoral songs which they sing at the end of the day when leading the animals back from the pastures; and in the home, the elders tell the young generation stories and legends relating the life of their ancestors.
ARTS AND HANDICRAFTSThe art of Burundi is extremely varied. It is characterized by decorative motifs and geometrical patterns in which the artist’s initial inspiration predominates. This highly stylized art possesses a harmony derived from asymmetry and contrasts that do not clash. It finds expression in wrought iron, wickerwork, pottery, sculpture and bas-reliefs.
EDUCATIONPrimary education lasts for six years leading to the Certificat d’Etudes primaires (elementary education). Secondary education is divided into lower and upper secondary education. Lower secondary education is available to those who pass the National Entrance Examination and lasts four years. A national test is imposed on all those who complete lower secondary education. Their records are submitted to a National Orientation Commission. Schooling at upper secondary level lasts three years after lower education and leads to the Diplôme d’Etat,
which gives access to higher education. Technical secondary education lasts seven years. Higher education: is mainly provided by the Université du Burundi which is largely financed by the State and enjoys administrative and management autonomy. New and privately owned universities have since been created.
PLACES TO VISITThere are some unique features in Burundi that a visitor must see such as Karera Water Falls, German Crater-Nyakazu, the unexplored cave of Kayove, the Muhwezi hot springs and lake Tanganyika.
One can also visit the National Parks and reserves such as Kibira and Ruvubu National Parks. There are also bird watching activities at lake Rwihinda, diving and fishing activities on lake Tanganyika, cultural tourism in Gishora, Rubumba, Bugarama, Kirundo and Makamba.
While in Burundi find time to visit Gitega National Museum, Bujumbura live museum, the Livingstone rock and the Source du Nil, Kajara Beach Resorts.
FLIGHTSSN Brussels, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Uganda, Rwandair, air Burundi and Fly 540 are some of the airline offering scheduled flights to Bujumbura.
National Parks
buffalo, crocodiles, leopard, monkeys, antelope and lion. Bird lovers will have a marvelous time in the Ruvubu National Park as more than 425 species of birds thrive in this park making it all the more attractive. The Ruvubu National Park aims to preserve the endangered species of animals and birds. Human habitation had been evacuated from the park so that the different wildlife species could thrive well. The Ruvubu National Park of Burundi is easily accessible by road as it lies about 216 km away from Bujumbura and the park itself has about 50 kilometer of tracks.
Ruvubu National Park is considered the largest national park in Burundi covering 508km2. Ruvubu National Park covers a significant
amount of land on both sides of the Ruvubu River, situated in the eastern Burundi. According to the records available at the Office of Tourism in Burundi, Ruvubu National Park was set up in the year 1980 and is the homeland of some of the most striking flora and fauna. It is this flora and fauna that makes Ruvubu National Park standout among all the other Burundi tourist attractions. Wildlife in the Ruvubu National Park consists of animals like hippopotamus,
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Recently camping facilities for the visitors have been added making it more attractive to adventure lovers. Kibira National Park The Kibira National Park straddles four provinces in Burundi and has an area of 40 000 ha. It is composed of montane rain forest containing several vegetation strata: Entandrophragma excelsum and Parinari excelsa stands, Parinari excelsa var. holstii and Polyscias fulva stands, Polyscias fulva, Macaranga neomildreadiana and Syzygium parvifolium stands, Hagenia abyssinica and Faurea saligna secondary forest stands, Philippia benguelensis and Protea madiensis high-altitude stands on ridges, Arundinaria alpina (pure bamboo) stands, stands along thalwegs and stands formed by reclaimation of previously cultivated and grazed land. Kibira National Park is a zone rich in both animal and plant biodiversity: 644 plant species have been found in the park, as well as about 98 species of mammal (primates, servals, African civets, etc.). Bird life is also rich and varied, with 43 families and more than 200 species identified. More than three-quarters of the water in the country’s largest dam – providing more than 50 percent of the hydroelectric energy consumed – comes from this forest. Thus the park plays a fundamental role in regulating the hydrological system and protecting against soil erosion. Rusizi National Park, Burundi Rusizi National Park is the most popular and sought after Burundi tourist attraction. Rusizi National Park in Burundi is commonly known as Parc National de la Rusizi and is situated in the north-west of Bujumbura. The park is divided into two parts; the larger part lies on the eastern bank of Rusizi River where you have Rusizi delta a point River Rusizi enters Lake
Tanganyika. Tourists normally enjoy a lot in this park as they can explore various unique species of flora and fauna and the environment also supports the existence of these unique species. Wildlife species in Rusizi National Park include hippopotamus, antelopes and monkeys along with numerous species of colorful birds. Various species of trees namely the Acacia Albida and Euphorbia candelabrum are found in the northern part of the reserve. Various species of unique birds form an integral part of the Rusizi National Park which makes the park a wonderful Burundi tourist destination. In Rusizi river there is a mythical story about Gustave the crocodile believed to have mysterious powers. While the largest Nile crocodiles typically measure something over 20 feet, Gustave supposedly reaches 30 feet; some people who have seen him claim he is 40 feet, teeth to tail. Locals describe how he has devoured fisherman after fisherman, swimmer after swimmer. During one raid, legend has it, he chomped up more than a dozen people and still seemed hungry at the end of it all.
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AIRLINESBrussels Airlines, Tel:+257 22 256281, Fax: +257 22 256280. Email: Burundi.brusselsairlines .comRwandair, Tel:+25722251850/+25722251849Email: sales [email protected]: www.rwandair.comAir Burundi, Avenue du commerce,Tel: +25777010000, Fax: +257223452.Email: [email protected] Airlines, Avenue de la Victoire, Tel: +257 226820/038. Email: [email protected] Airways, Avenue l’independence old East 2 EME Estage Burundi
BUJUMBURA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTAirlines:Brussels Airlines, Tel:+257 22 256281 Ethiopian Airlines, Tel: +257226820/038Fly540 Kenya AirwaysRwandair Express, Tel:+257 22 251850/+257 22 251849Cargo:Ethiopian Airlines Cargo Kenya Airways Cargo Silverback Cargo FreightersContacts: Tel: +257 223797.Departure Tax: US$20Facilities: Facilities at the airport include a small restaurant and duty free shop.Getting to the city: There is a taxi rank outside of arrivals. Taxis to or from town cost around US$10 or BIF12,000.Location: The airport is situated six miles (11km) from Bujumbura centre.Time: GMT +2.
ASSOCIATIONSAssociation Des Motards Taxi Me Du Burundi (AMOTABU) Avenue Mugamba Rohero 2Tel: +257 75 62150/+25775544569Burundi Tobacco Company (BTC)Tel:+257 22 226687/+25722222494Email: [email protected]
CHURCHRepresentation Legale-Ecole PastoraleEmail:[email protected]. Tel: +257 242664Church of the RockAvenue Mwaro18Eglise Adventiste Du September JourAvenue Prince Lui Rwagasore
Tel: +257 22 22 23 16/22 25 25 29 /+257 22 22 29 18, Email: [email protected]: www.mfa.gov.egEmbassy of NetherlandTel:+257 22 4373French Embassy, Boulevard de l’UpronaTel: +257 22 20 30 00 / 22 20 30 10Email: cad.BUJUMBURA-AMBA[a]diplomatie.gouv.frWebsite: www.ambafrance-bi.orgGermany Embassy, Avenue du 18 SeptembreTel: +257 22 25 77 77 , +257 22 22 10 04Email: [email protected] Consulate of Republic of GreeceAvenue de la RD CongoTel:+25722242630/+257 77 7735325Kenyan embassy, Prince lui Rwagasore Tel: +257 22258160. Email: [email protected] Embassy, Place de l’independence. Building old East, 1st Floor, Tel: +257 22252055Email: [email protected], Nigerian Embassy, Avenue du large kinindo. Tel: +257 22 257076, Email: [email protected] Embassy, 71 Avenue de l’UpronaTel: +257 22 22 60 98 / +257 22 22 42 37Email: [email protected] Embassy, 24 Avenue de la RDCTel: +257 22 22 32 55, +257 22 22 32 54Email: [email protected] Africa Embassy, Avenue de la plage, Tel: +257 22244650, +257 22248221Email: [email protected] Embassy, United Nations RoadTel: +257 22 24 86 32, +257 22 24 86 [email protected] Embassy, Avenue des Etats Unis, Tel: +257 22 20 70 00/22 21 48 53, +257 22 22 29 26Website: www.burundi.usembassy.gov
NATIONAL PARKSRusizi National parkGihanga, BurundiMost popular and sought after Rurundi Tourist AttractionTel:+257 22 229390Kibira National ParkRugazi, BurundiSituated at the Top of Apex Zaire Nile, with its 40000.The land is completely untouchedMonge Forest Nature ReserveBururi R.N 16 BurundiRumonge Nature ReserveRumonge R.N16 BurundiRuvubu National ParkBurundi, Cankuzoo, Karuzi, Muyinga, Rugigi, area 43630 ha Altitude 1350-1830 Ruvubu is the largest
ON THE BUSGaso, Avenue de FranceTel: +257999436Nile Travel Agency (NITRA)Avenue boulevard de la TanzanieTel: +257 22 222321Email:[email protected] Belvedere lines, Avenue de FranceTel:+25779461504/+2577992071BUJ-BUTALE-KIGALI (7h30)BUJ-NGOZI-KIRONDO-KIGALI (10h00)BUJ-NGOZI-KIRONDO-KIGALI (11h00-12h00)
USEFUL NUMBERSPolice, +257 22 223777Kamenge University Hospital, Tel: +257 22 23 20 92 or +257 22 232074.Hospital Prince Regent Charles, Avenue du PortBujumbura, Burundi. Tel: +257 22 8435. Hospital Medical Service,Bujumbura, BurundiTel: +257 22 2301, Fax: +257 22 3950
CHURCHES
CATHOLICS CHURCHESCathedrale Regina MundiAvenue Patrice LumumbaParoisse Regina PacisKinindo quarterParoisse Saint MichelSan Dominican CommunityAvenue de l’IndustrieParoisse Esprit de SagesseMutanga Sud quarterMont Sion GikunguMutanga Nord quarterSan Spirit Lycee churchGihosha quarter
PENTECOSTALS CHURCHESEglise Methoditse Unie48 Avenue de la Revolution+257 22 22 44 94Eglise Evangelique des Amis (E.E.A.)Avenue de l’IndustrieVineyard ChurchQ.Kinanira 2+257 79 923 663Eglise Mission du ChristAvenue du Large (Inside La Detente)
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BUJUMBURA GOLF CLUB
IN HIS WORDS
Q: You recently hosted a highly successful golf event-The Burundi Open. Congratulations!A: Thank you. It was simply overwhelming!
Q. The Open managed to attract many pro golfers from all over East Africa; it was widely covered in most of the top media outlets in the region. Were you surprised by the event’s success?A. I would say yes and no. True, the Open’s success was even better than we had expected; but in a way it was inevitable given that we had a really good team that worked so hard to make sure everything was on point. In special way I want to thank my Captain and all the other members of the club who helped with organising. I also must mention our partners:
the government of Burundi, all the sponsors, and the golfers, all of whom came together to make the event a success.
Q. Such high profile events are sure to attract attention from Golfers and golf lovers around the world....A. I hope so! Bujumbura Golf Club is open to all golfers from around the world. I invite them to drop in and play some golf on our excellent course.
Q. So, who is welcome?A. Everyone! In a special way I would like to encourage all golf lovers in Burundi to join the club. You can pass by and get details on how to join. We also welcome golfers visiting Burundi to try this club. All they need to do is provide proof of membership in another Golf Club anywhere in
The Eye Magazine Rwanda & Burundi’s Ngabire Emmanuel recently sat down for a chat with Bujumbura Golf Club President, Mr. Ken Lukongodo. We asked him about the recently concluded and highly acclaimed Burundi Open, about his plans for the club and what golf tourists can expect from Bujumbura Golf Club.
IS OPEN TO VISITORS
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the world. Moreover, golfers from reciprocating clubs are treated as members. They don’t pay green fees. Finally, anybody-even a non-golfer- who has been invited by a member of the Golf Club is welcome to the club as a guest.
Q. Where do most of your ‘golf tourists’ tend to come from?A. They are mostly Rwandans,
especially around their holidays which tend to coincide with those of Burundi. We also have partners like Roca Golf Hotel and Village Hotel who have an arrangement with the club that allows playing guests of theirs to access the course. Most of the other playing visitors we have are from the region.
Q. You are now a few months into your tenure as President. What can we expect in the coming year?A. We have a number of plans, some ongoing, others for the future. Already, we have an arrangement with Roca Golf Hotel that will ensure that we can play golf all year round. Roca did a matching grant with us to irrigate not just the greens but the fairways as well. Thus we shall not have to close the course in the dry season like we used to.
We also plan to partner with some sponsors to cover the part of the course that is marshland. Finally, we want to build a wall around the entire entente sportive. Then we can let the walls out for advertising billboards. That will bring in some extra revenue to the club.
Q. Looks like Bujumbura Golf Club is going places!A. It certainly is! You are welcome to join us...
IN HIS WORDS
IS OPEN TO VISITORS
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Bujumbura Golf Club President, Mr. Ken Lukongodo
Early this month Bujumbura Golf Club hosted the 16th edition of the Burundi Open. The event was launched by the 2nd Vice President of the Republic of Burundi Dr. Gervais RUFYIKIRI. The event’s main sponsors were Heineken and Interbank, together with a number of co-sponsors.
The Open, with a 10,000 USD prize money award in the Professionals category attracted over 28 pros from Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and DR Congo.
In the end, the top spot was won by Kenya’s Dismas Indiza, while Rwanda’s lead professional golfer Jean-Baptist Hakizimana came 4th. We bring you highlights of what transpired.
AS IT HAPPENED
Sharing a Light Moment: The 2nd Vice President of the Republic of Burundi Dr. Gervais RUFYIKIRI, the ADG of the Brarudi Representing Heineken Mr. Maarten Schuurman (co sponsor) and the Ken Lukongodo President of the Bujumbura Golf Club Centre.
The Prize Presentation Diner at the Bujumbura Golf Club Pavilion
“Home Win”: Mr. Calixte Mutabazi carrying the Net Category 1st Runner Up young 10 year old Abdoul fast coming up the Junior Ranks
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Simbagoye Runner up Gross Category
Mr. John Mwalimu (Golf100 Magazine) and the Winner 2014 Burundi Open – Willy Kitata
Sandra Wins the Ladies Category, Captain BGC Mr. James Cobb, Consolate De Frahan (Rudi-Paints) and Bharat Gorajia(Samsung)
Determined look: Kenyan Professional taking aim at the 18th Hole Par 3
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Gitega special
By Manu Gome
Known officially as Burundi’s 2nd city, Gitega sits high up in the hills, a two hour drive east of
Bujumbura. My journey to this former colonial
capital of Burundi started in the most ordinary way possible: I took a public minibus.
I like to use Public Service Vans (minibus) whenever possible because you are sure something interesting will happen on the way. This time was no different.
From the half hour delay at Gare du Nord because, after over an hour of sitting in his van while it loaded
passengers, the chauffeur realised only after it was full that he needed to change a tyre; to the comedic passenger who kept ‘threatening’ to get out of the van- for whatever flimsy reason came to his mind- but never did (even when the rest of us, fed up with his antics, begged him to go); to the fifth passenger in the first row of the van who, on seeing the police ran for the hills (literally) and left his luggage in the mini-bus, my journey was proving as entertaining as I had hoped.
But there is another reason I like to use minivans: I feel they give an outsider a fairly good insight into the character of a country’s ordinary folk.
As we sped up the excellent tarmac road that winds through hills covered in banana plantations, cassava, climbing beans and tea, the easy chatter of the passengers amongst each other told of Burundians’ sociability; the man who shared his roasted peanuts with the rest of the passengers told of their generosity; the woman who, looking at a cloud-A typical day in Gitega . Photo credit- Dave Proffer
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covered hill in the distance, nonchalantly remarked, “The hill is carrying clouds (on its head)”, told of the poetry of Kirundi; and the minivan’s conductor (locally called convoyeur) who begged and cajoled you sweetly to enter his car and turned into a fire-breathing Shylock as soon as you were firmly inside told me, well, that these guys are the same everywhere.
Finally, as the midday sun blazed right overhead, we arrived in Gitega. Many of the buildings have a colonial architecture, giving the city a classic retro feel that makes you feel like a wanderer in some ancient city.
Immediately on entering the city centre, you can see why Gitega is called the heart of Burundi. Apart from being geographically in the centre of the country, Gitega is a throbbing, pulsating city, full of life and activity.
All around, traders and touts, beggars and taxi owners vie for your attention in alternating Swahili, Kirundi and French as they struggle to place you. From afar each of the many shops seems busy, and you can see two or three customers standing and gesturing in the door of each one, while the busy shop owner, his body half-turned
away from them, attempts to find their order in the shelves above.
After a couple of hours just walking the streets and popping into random shops in the baking sun, it was a relief to discover some great hotels- Tropitel, Helena and Bethel to name just three- within or right at the edge of the city centre where one could chill out. I had a delicious buffet at Helena Hotel and a relaxing afternoon with cold drinks at the luxurious Tropitel; and although I only spent one short afternoon in it, Gitega is certainly a place I will be returning to soon.
A trading centre on the road to Gitega. Photo Credit- Dave Proffer. Source- Wikipedia Commons
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PAMPER YOURSELF AT TROPITEL-GITEGA HOTELBy Ngabire Emmanuel
Opened in July last year, Tropitel-Gitega Hotel is a paradise of luxury right at the
edge of Gitega, Burundi’s second city. The hewn-stone facade of the hotel and its sprawling architecture feels modern and welcoming at the same time.
A mere three minutes walk from the National Museum and in driving distance of Gishuha hot water springs, Gishora drum sites, and Kirera falls, Tropitel-Gitega hotel is the ideal
launching pad for all your travels in Gitega town.
What makes Tropitel tickThe hotel has 24 rooms (4 suites, 20 Standard rooms) at really attractive rates especially considering that it is such a high class hotel.
If you just want to relax, the hotel has a standard restaurant that offers a variety of both local and exotic dishes. It also has a well-stocked bar, a fairly-equipped gym room with basic workout equipment and a medium sized swimming pool that is free to use
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Gitega special
for guests.During our stay, the staff at
Tropitel-Gitega was really helpful and professional. They welcome you with a smile and are really courteous, taking care of each guest in an attentive yet discreet manner. I found this refreshing because staff at many hotels do not seem to know where to draw the line between hovering over the customer on the one hand and ignoring them outright on the other.
For companies and organisations interested in organising retreats, trainings or conferences, Tropitel-Gitega Hotel is a perfect venue. Located in a quiet neighbourhood, the hotel will give participants the distraction-free atmosphere that it so important for such events. It also has conference rooms of different sizes (250-,80- and 22- capacity), all fully equipped with wireless internet and microphones for your use.
Special activitiesAccording to Solange Irakoze, the
House Keeping Manager at the hotel, some of the special activities guests at Tropitel-Gitega can enjoy are Karaoke sessions on the last Saturday of the month (although it ends early in order not to disturb the guests); special menus with free music for groups interested in having private lunches/dinners at the hotel’s restaurant , and a hotel van that can be used to transport guests to various touristic venues within Gitega for a special rate depending on the size of the group and how long they need the van.
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The Gitega National Museum, located at the entry into Gitega city is one of the best places you could go to for archival information about the history of the country. Like the old woman of the clan who knows all the old stories but neglects her appearance, the general aesthetics of the structure leave a lot to be desired, but once you engage with her, the information you gain is well worth the effort.
On display are photographs explaining Burundi’s rich cultural past, ancient monarchies and architecture. There is also information about the country’s more recent turbulent history, including tragic tales of ethnic
conflict and genocide.
A Gishora is one of the Burundi’s most famous drum sites. It is about 5km from Gitega town and 200m off the Gitega-Ngozi route. It was founded by King Mwezi Gisabo and placed under the care of a local community called ‘Abatimbo’, descendants of the ancient lineage of ‘Abanyigisaka’. The site of Gishora also houses two ritual drums that were never beaten: Ruciteme and Murimirwa. A guide stationed at the site will share their fascinating story. The site also recreates an architectural complex of a Royal palace, rarely found elsewhere in the country.
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Places worth visiting
A visit to these fascinating falls is generally considered a rite of passage
for all visitors to Burundi. Karera waterfalls are situated about 45 km East of Gitega town, within an intimate enclave of towering trees. You can take different routes around the falls to see the six branches of the falls in all their glory. In total, the falls are spreads over three levels of dramatic beauty.
The area around Karera falls is also a great place to do some birding as there are a number of rare birds in the area.
The Germans’ Rift is also known as
the Nyakazu Rift. This site is located 50km due East of Gitega on Nkoma Mountain in Kayove District. Legend goes that the first King of Burundi appeared on this mountain in the 15th century, before progressing to the heights of Muramvya. Nyakazu was a German military Station (BOMA) built for controlling the eastern part of the country up to Tanzania in 1914, the beginning of the First World War. A few stones from this historic building remain visible from the south of the Rift. The name “Germans’ Rift” is inspired by a tale that the plateau of Nkoma on which BOMA was built, “was split by the boots of German soldiers fleeing the Belgian forces”.
• Other places you may want to visit include: Gishuha hot water springs (about 10 km north of Gitega city centre) and (for Catholics especially) Mugera pilgrimage site (20 km from the center of Gitega) where the first missionaries are said to have arrived in Gitega in the late 19th century
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VISIT
ACCOMMODATIONHOTELSAlexestel hotel, Avenue Makamba, Rohero1Tel: +257 22 25397/+257 22253972, Fax: +257 22 216117Email: [email protected]: alexestelburundi.comBest Hotel Burundi , Avenue de La Revolution, Bujumbura, Tel +257 22 22 53 51Best Outlook Hotel, Avenue Du Prince Louis Gagasore, Kiriri, Tel: 00257 22277758/ 00257 22277759, Email: [email protected], Website: www.bestoutlookhotel.comBright Hotel, Avenue Kunkiko, Rohero2Tel: +257 22 256188/87/89, Fax: +257 22 256190, Website: brighthotel.netBurundi Vaya Hotel, Avenue Chaussee Prince Loui Rwagasore.Kiriri Bujumbura.Tel : +257 22228231, Website: www.vayahotel.frCity Hill Hotel, P.O.Box 3003 BujumburaTel: +257 22 27 77 89, Email: [email protected], Website: www.cityhillhotel.comDorado Hotel, 145 Avenue de l’IndustrieTel: +257 22 25 95 07, +257 22 25 95 08Email: [email protected], info@[email protected], [email protected]: www.doradohotel.biEmeraude Hotel, Rohero2 Avenue kunkiko 17Tel: +25722 276550Email:reception@emeraudehotelWebsite: www.emeraudehotel.comGahahehillshotel, Boulevard Du 28 Novembre, Solorezo, Bujumbura, +257 79 92 02 88 Hotel Amahoro, 212 Avenue de l’industrie,mobile : +257 78832350 ,+257 77718967, +257 22276700Hotel Beause’jour Iramvya, Boulevard de l’ Uprona, Tel : +257 22252471/ +257 22252472. Email: [email protected] Botanika, Bld de l’ uprona N9,Tel: +257 22226792 +25722228773Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Chaussee d’UviraTel: +257 22 25 02 20 /22 25 02 21/ +257 22 25 02 19Mobile: +257 78 828 008/79 588 500Email: [email protected]: www.hotelclubdulac-comHotel de la Palmeraie, Avenue du large. P.O. Box 2710 Bujumbura. +25778600000, +25778600003, [email protected] Hotel de l’amitie, 30-32 avenue de l’ Amitie Tel: +257 22226195
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Hotel Keza Tel: +257 79 954040/+257 75 954049Email: [email protected] la Chandelier, avenue de la J.R.R N17. Tel: +257 22276804. Email: [email protected] de la Palmeraie, Avenue du large. P.O. Box 2710 Bujumbura. +25778600000, +25778600003, [email protected] Hotel Le Bouquet, 718 Avenue de l’IndustrieTel: +257 22 25 84 22 / 22 25 84 24Email: [email protected]: www.hotellebouquet.net76.net Hotel le Chandelier , Avenue de La J.R.R, Bujumbura, Tel: +257 22 27 68 04Hotel le Residence , Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore, BujumburaHotel Restaurant Logis Du Lac, Q.Asiatique,avenue de la plage, Tel: +257 79 317 929 / 79 955 542Hotel Safaris Gate, Avenue du Large, Tel: +257 22 21 47 79, Website: www.hotelsafarigate.comHotel Source du Nil, Avenue du StadeTel: +257 22 225222 / +257 77 778816 / +257 22 225205, Email: [email protected] Tanganyika Lake View, Q.Asiatique,avenue de la plage, Tel: +257 22 24 45 12, +257 22 22 57 44Hotel Vaya, 5441 Chaussée Prince Louis Rwagasore, Bujumbura 1267, Tel: +257 22 228231Kabera Beach hotel, Tel: +257 79922514/+257 75 82651/+257 79 958022Karera Hotel and Resort, Tel: +257 22 247818/ +257 77 762185. Email: karerabeach @yahoo.fr Website: www.karerabeach.hotel.comKing’s Confrence Centre, Avenue du large, Ndamukiza,kinindo, Tel: +257 78 231 971, + 257 77 755 215, Email: [email protected], Website: www.kccburundi.orgKiriri Residence hotel, Avenue Chaussee Prince Loui Rwagasore. Tel : +257 22242155, Fax : +257 22252129, Email : [email protected] Residence Hotel, Avenue du musee vivantTel: +257 22 27 73 10/22 27 73 09Email: [email protected] Palm Hotel, R.N.4, BujumburaSafari Gate, Avenue du Large, Bujumbura,Tel: +257 22 21 47 79Saga Residence Hotel Avenue Mao-jse-tsungTel: +257 210007Shammah Hotel, Tel: +257 22 223569Email: [email protected] Hotel, Avenue du Peuple Murundi, B.P. 7023, +25722248016 or +25778862111, [email protected] Sun Safari Club Hotel, Rohero 1, Avenue Mao Tse Young. Tel: +257 22210007 Email: [email protected]. Website: www.sunsafariclubhotel.comSource du Nil, +257 76977101/ +257 79977101
New Parado Residence,Boulevard Du 28 Novembre, Tel : +257 79969513,Email : [email protected] Golf Hotel, Boulevard de la Tanzanie- Bp 6716. Email: [email protected], Tel: +257 22 277100Royal Palace Hotel, Avenue du Large,Tel: +257 22226691/ Mobile: +257 77745992 Email: [email protected] Beach Resort, Ruhondo lakeside, Musanze district, Northern Province. Mob+250782497865, +250728497865 , +250738497865.Email: [email protected]: www.ruhondobeach.comUbuntu Residence, Avenue De La Plage, Tel : +257 22244064, Email : [email protected] Tanganyika Hotel, Avenue de la ScienceTel: +257 22 24 84 59, Email: [email protected] Hotel, Rohero 1 Avenue bururi 7Tel:+257 22 244359/+257 22 2521 16/17/18Fax: +257 22 255043Email: [email protected] Front Hotel, 1 avenue du peuple Murundi Tel: +257 22259900Yombe Palace Hotel, Avenue du LargeTel: +257 22 25 58 52 /+257 79 928 301Email: [email protected]: www.hotelyombepalace.com
ART GALLERIESArt Village, Art village gallery YouTube .comGallerie innovatiob, Avenue Boulevard De L’uprona
CAR WASHCentral Car Wash Avenue Bouleveardde L’uprona
MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERSHIPBurundi Motors, 15 Rue du Poison, Quartier Industriel BP 465, Bujumbura, +25722222231Cell +25675395000Sogerbu S.G (mazda,Mercedes Benz) Avenue de l’independence, Rohero 1 Bujumbura
SPARE PARTSPenzoil Car Care, Avenue Boulevard de la tanzanieAlen Spare Parts, Avenue Boulevard de la TanzanieTel: +257 22 2275444/+257 78 831831Ceffic Atelier De Reparation (CEF),Avenue Mwaro 16
PETROL/FUEL STATIONSCentral, Avenue Boulevard De L’upronaEngen Petroleum Company, B.P. 7184. Bujumbura. +25779931602Kobil Burundi SA, B.P. 466. Bujumbura. Burundi. +25778478609/+25779478609Station Du Parc, Avenue boulevard de la TanzaniePetrobu/Port, Avenue boulevard la Tanzanie
BUTCHERIESBoucherie Charcuterie Nouvelle,Avenue De La RdcongoDucherie Charcuterie Nouvelle, Avenue de la Rd CongoLa Solidaire Ntazimba, Avenue Boulevard De L’independence
CRAFT MARKETSMaison, Chez Nathaliie, Avenue de la Rd Congo
ELECTRONICSBujumbura Electronic Centre, Avenue de l’amitieTel: +257 79 321356 / +257 78 8304552Electro Centre, Rusca Plaza, Avenue de l’amitieSamsung, Avenue Boulevard De L’uprona
Tel: +257 22 235968 / +257 22 235968CHA$E Forex, Tel: +257 22 249548 / +257 22 249548Email: [email protected] Town Forex, Chaussee P.L.RwagasoreTel: +257 22 221425 / +257 78860772Face a Face Forex, Boulevard de l’UpronaTel: +257 22 244922 / +257 79 920976 /Mobile: +257 78 840051Ingabo Forex, Avenue de l’AmitieTel: +257 22 225558 / +257 79 921251Email: [email protected] Forex, Avenue du Progres, Immeuble Kwa Ngoma, Tel: +257 22 253640Memelo Forex, Avenue du ComerceTel: +257 22 259819 / +257 79 951452Email: [email protected] Jesus No Life Exchange,Chausse du P.L.Rwagasore, Tel: +257 77 731835 / +257 79 905829Nyota Exchange, Avenue de l’AmitieTel: +257 79 984390 / +257 77 758890Wall Street Exchange,Chausse du P.L.Rwagasore(Inside SICCOPP fuel Staton)Tel: +257 22 255689 / +257 22 255688
FURNITUREGTS Interiors, Avenue De L’ Oua, Tel: +257 22244746, Email: [email protected], Website: Www.Gts-Burundi.Com
GIFT SHOPSMaison Maicale Avenue de l’onuGift Supermarket Centre, Avenue Chausse Prince Lui Rwagasore
HEALTHAROMATHERAPYPinnacle 19 Hotel Spa Resort Avenue Route d’urira
CLINICSCabinet Medical (DR Jean Baptiste) Ngomirakiza Rohero 2, Avenue kirimiro 8Tel: +257 79 926737 / +257 22 257626Centre Medical (St Pierre)Avenue Bututsi Rohero 2Tel: +257 22 274120Clinique Chinois Avenue MuyingaClinique de Lapaix de, Rohero Avenue de l’upronaTEL: +257 22 248397 / +257 22 246769Clinique de l’oeil Rohero 1 Avenue kirimiro
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Clinique la Colombe Tel: +257 22 250812 / +257 79 923927Centre Medical MEDI-CARE sa, Q.Rohero,avenue des Manguiers, Tel: +257 22 243808Clinique Saint Jean,Q.Kinanira2,Bld de la LiberteTel: +257 22 222095 / +257 22 226934 / +257 79 920657Clinique Saint Stephane, Q.Rohero,avenue de l’ONU, Tel: +257 22 241898/ +257 22 241596 / +257 77807020 / +257 77 807828Diagnostica S.A Avenue de l’upronaTel: +257 22 243778Fax: +257 22 219783 / +257 22 246705Email: samibra@usau_bu.net / [email protected] Medical CorpsAvenue Boulevard de l’uprona 3Tel: +257 22 2218278 / +257 22 210277Polyclinique de central Bujumbura Rohero 2 Avenue KirimiroSaint Maria Medical Centre Rohero 2 Avenue kirimiro
HEALTH SPASPinnacle 19 Hotel spa Resort Avenue Route D’uvira, Tel: +257 78 92364 / +257 77 080855Email: pinnacle [email protected]
HOSPITALSGanghi Memorial HospitalAvenue de la’ solidarite 18 Rohero1Rama Academy (yoga) Kundalini YogaAvenue de la Revolution 21Tel: +257 79 2262462Teacher Sat Darshan Singh
MASSAGEPinnacle 19 Hotel Spa Resort Avenue Route D’uvira
OPTICIANSExtra Centre Optique ME Avenue kirimiro Rohero 2Lunetterie Amarori Avenue Kirimiro, Rohero 2
PHYSIOTHERAPISTCentre de Kine PhysiotherapieTel +2577846915 /+257 75486915
HOME APPLIANCESOzone Alimentation, Avenue de l ‘amitieEAU Mineralle Naturalle, Avenue de l’amitieMOHD-LUX RC 73048Lu-Décor, Jadore, Avenue de RD CongoTel:+25722247206Website: www.lu_decor.com
INTENET CAFÉSFace to Face, Avenue de l’upronaCyber Café Kwa muco, Avenue de la Victorie/Avenue de l’IndustrieDanafrica Cyber,Q.Mutanga Sud,Bld du 28 Novembre,avenue GitengeFace a Face net coffee, Boulevard de l’UpronaSurf Internet, Av.de l’Amitie,Immeuble Rucsa Plaza,Room G20, Tel: +257 75 234083Email: [email protected] net coffee, Chausse P.L.RwagasoreTel: +257 78 849388/ +257 79 990219Email: [email protected]
LANGUAGE CENTRESLanguage Centres Els, Avenue Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore. Tel: +257 21 7302 (English Language Speaking)
LIBRARYLibrairie Saint Paul, Avenue De L’independence, Rohero1 , Tel : +257 22222331, Fax : +257 22228525
MINI MARKETSBelladonne kiriri, Avenue Chausse Prince Lui RwagasoreLafee dulogis, Avenue Prince lui RwagasoreFido dido Alimentation, Avenue Prince lui RwagasoreGalastic Shop, Avenue Prince lui RwagasoreBella done, Avenue Des Travelleurs
SUPER MARKETSBistar Supermarket,Burundi Trade Center, Mobile : +257 257 76641334,Rumonge StreetEscale du Bien Supermarket, Avenue Chaussee Prince Louis RwagasoreFee Du Logis, Chaussee Prince Louis RwagasoreOM Trading & Supermarket, Tel: +257 78449025Email: [email protected] Super Marche’ Dimitri, 111 Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore, Tel : +257 22222929 T 2000 Super Market, Boulevard De L’uprona 34, Tel : +257 22254099
TELECOMMUNICATIONSEco Net wireless, 281A, Boulevard de l’UPRONA,Tel: +257 222 43131, Fax: +257 222 43535, Email: [email protected], U-com Burundi s.a, L place de l’inde’pendance, Tel : +257 292 92929, Fax : +257 222 12366/ +25779671000, Email : [email protected], Website : www.leo.biOnatel, Tel: +25722266460. Email: [email protected], Avenue de la RDC. Tel: +257 22 252525, Fax: +257 22 251010. Website: www.africel.bi
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ASSURANCE COMPANIESBicor, Avenue boulevard du 28 novembreTel: +257 22 222820Sonavie Assurance, Avenue De L’independenceSocabu, 1 Avenue de l’Assurance Bujumbura Afrika Risk Courtier Assurance, Avenue Bututsi Rohero 2. Tel: +257 71 329277 / +257 78 852166
BANKSBanque Burundi Pour.le commerce et l’investissement (BBCI), Boulevard du peuple murundi, Tel: +257 223328-1369, Fax : +254 223339, Telex : 5012Banque Commerciale du Burundi, 84 Chausse’e P.L Rwagasore. Tel : +257 22265200, Email: [email protected] de Credit de Bujumbura, Tel : +257 222 01111, Fax : +257 222 01115, Email : [email protected] Bank Burundi S.A, P.O. Box 254 Bujumbura, Burundi, Tel: +257 76 098 942, Website: www.crdbbank.comDiamond Trust Bank SA, 14 Chaussée Prince Louis Rwagasore, B.P. 2871, Bujumbura +257 222 59988Eco Bank, d.rue de la science, Tel : +25722226351, Fax: +257 222 25437, Email: [email protected] Bank, Bouvelard de l’independence. Tel:+257 22256580Inter Bank Burundi , Bujumbura. Burundi, Mobile: +257 799 20277. Tel: +257 222 44362, Email: [email protected] Bank, Tel:+25722224966/224975, Fax: +25722224988, Email: [email protected]
CONSTRUCTIONMaga Des Materiaux Construction, Avenue Boulevard de la Tanzanie. Tel: +257 79 941081 Vente Des Materiax, Avenue boulevard de la TanzanieReal Estate Developers and Constructors,Tel: +257 22 256219 / +257 22 256220Email: realestate developers.com
FORWARDING COMPANYSDV Transami, Avenue Boulevard du Novembre 55, Tel: +257 22 224849 / +257 30 835140
FREIGHT COMPANIES (AIR FREIGHT)Air Freight Avenue De L’upronaRapid Freights International (Burundi)chausse’e Prince Louis Rwangasore,Tel: +257 22222618, E-mail: [email protected], Website: www.rapidfreightintl.com
FUEL STATIONSKobil Station, Q.Kigobe Nord,Bld du 28 Novembre (Opposite Roi Khaled Hospital)Kigobe City Oil, Q.Kigobe Nord, Bld du 28 Novembre(Opposite Burundi University”Campus Kamenge”)La Concorde Station, Q.Mutanga Sud,Bld du 28 Novembre,avenue Sanzu
INFORMATION TECHONOLOGYAlpha CD Technology, Avenue boulevard de l’uprona. Tel: +257 25 4210, Fax: +257 25 4209Email: [email protected] Information Technologies, Tel: +257 22 251900/ +257 79 906742/43. Email: [email protected]
INSURANCE COMPANIESBicor, Avenue de la GreceTel: + 257 22 222820 / +257 22222801First Burundi Insurance Brokers, Avenue de la RDC, Tel: +257 22 257625 / +257 79 921092 / +257 22 257657. Email: [email protected]
COFFEE SHOPSAroma Coffee and tea room, Avenue de l’Uprona tél: + 257 71 542 061Café prima Avenue Chausse Prince Lui RwagasoreCoffee Shop, Avenue de l’onu, L Rohero 1Le Cafeier, Av. De l’Amitie,Immeuble Rucsa PlazaTel: +257 22 274278 / +257 22 27 42 79Email: [email protected]/[email protected] coffee, Avenue de la VictoireTel: +257 78 840051 / +257 76 686868Email: [email protected], Chausse P.L.RwagasoreTel: +257 78 849388 / +257 79 990219Email: [email protected]
Night ClubsCasino MonocleGet upKiss Club Havana Toxic
RESTAURANTSArche des cigales, Tel: +257 75 425 426Email: [email protected] hotel (Restaurant and Bar)Avenue Makamba Rohero 1Tel: +257 22 25397. Fax: +257 22 216117Website: www.alexstelburund.comAu Coin D’Ixelles, Chaussee du Peuple Murundi, Bujumbura, Tel: +257 79 58 75 16 Barnacle, Av. de la Justice N° 1, Rohero - quartier INSS, Bujumbura, Tel: +25779 42 60 49 Belveder, Avenue Belvedere, Quartier Kiriri, On the hill in Kiriri, Bujumbura, Burundi,Tel: +257 78 82 08 10Boabab Restaurant Avenue boulevard de l’uprona, Tel : +257 79924763,Email: [email protected] Bora beach club, Chaussee d’Uvira, Bujumbura, Burundi, Tel: +257 22 27 66 19
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Botanika Restaurant Avenue Boulevard De L’uprona, tel : +257 22226792, + 257 22228773Calvados Avenue Mao-Tse ToungCappuccino, Avenue du Commerce, Bujumbura,Tel: +257 22 25 63 09Chez Andre’ Avenue Chausse Prince lui RwagasoreTel: +257 22 222267Chez Claude Bar and Resturant Avenue Bururi. Tel: +257 22 7308Chez Simeon Avenue Prince Lui RwagasoreTel: +257 79 930591 / +257 75 930591Chez Vaya Restaurant kiririTel: +257 22 228231 / +257 79 921191Elite snack Bar, Avenue Mwaro 7Tel: +257 78 354837Gymnase Club , B.P. 2755, Avenue Muramnyia22, Bujumbura, Tel: +257 78 39 99 99 Hebergement ET RestaurantAvenue Chausse de Prince Lui RwagasoreTel: +257 22 242225Website: www.sagaplage.comKasuku, Avenue Rukonwe, BP 7563,Bujumbura, Tel: +257 78 82 56 10 Kaze Country Restaurant Avenue de La culture et de la Solidarie. Tel: +257 799 23634 / +257 79 307307Ku Mwungo, Avanue Kayanza, BujumburaLe Beryl café Restaurant, Tel: +257 71 663 012Lacasa Hotel , Quartier KigobeSud,, Bujumbura,Tel: +257 22 27 76 10 La Trattoria Restaurant Avenue Bututsi Rohero 2La Jaerne Cocktail/Dinner Avenue MwaroLe Carnivore, Avenue Prince Lui RwagasoreLe Fraicher Avenue de l’amitie Tel: +257 79 996239 / +257 75 996239Le Kasuku, Avenue Rukonwe, Kabondo, Bujumbura, Tel: +257 79 56 28 10 Le Peche Nignan Carerne Avenue Boulevard de la IndependenceLe Plaisir, Tel: +257 23 22487791Le Safran, Avenue kunkiko Rohero2Tel: +257 22 210999Website: www.busable.comMarana Tha House, Avenue mwaro 7Tel: +257 22 222452 / +257 79 974218Oasis Restaurant and Pizzeria Avenue de l’upronaPastaComdia, Avenue de La Plage, BujumburaPetit Basaam Snack Bar Avenue GashumbaRadedy Resturant and snack bar Avenue GashambaShanghai Avenue Muyinga, BujumburaTaj Mahal (Sudhir Singh), 70, Prince louis Rawagsore, Rohero-1 Bujumbura, BurundiTel: +257 788 67949, +257 57 75867949Tandoor Avenue de La Culture, Bujumbura,Tel: +257 79 12 30 00 Tandoor Restaurant Avenue de l’unesco Rohero 1 BujumburaTasty Barbeque, Bujumbura
The Yummy BarbecueRohero 1 Avenue Boulevard de l’upronaTel: +257 78 800014 / +257 76 553591
CHINESETaj Mahal (Sudhir Singh), 70, Prince louis Rawagsore, Rohero-1 Bujumbura, BurundiTel: +257 788 67949, +257 57 75867949
FRENCHTaj Mahal (Sudhir Singh), 70, Prince louis Rawagsore, Rohero-1 Bujumbura, BurundiTel: +257 788 67949, +257 57 75867949
INDIANTaj Mahal (Sudhir Singh), 70, Prince louis Rawagsore, Rohero-1 Bujumbura, BurundiTel: +257 788 67949, +257 57 75867949
FAST FOOD/SNACK BARSAlberta Restaurant &Snack bar, Avenue de l ‘amitieTel: +257 22 25634 / +257 77 787782 / +257 94 80630Café Prima Avenue Chausse Prince Liu RwagasoreLe Campoes, Avenue de la RD CongoLe Béryl, Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore, Bujumbura, Tel: +257 78 10 08 61
OUTSIDE CATERINGBoabab Restaurant, Avenue boulevard de l’uprona, Tel : +257 79924763, Email : baobrest2020@yahoo.
VIDEO MUSICCocody Video Music Avenue D’abidjan BujumburaVic Media unstoppable, Tel: +256 781 467 134, +256 704 508 822, Email: [email protected], Website: www.vicmediastudios.comVideo Net DVD Club, Avenue Prince Louis Rwagasore, Tel : +257 77 762007/ +257 79 442007
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Having received IOSA certification in 2012,we are proud to announce that it has been renewed for another 2 years.
The IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) audit is an internationally recognized and accepted system that evaluates the operational management and systems of an airline