BestCities Global Alliance has welcomed Kigali as the 14th member of its international network of convention destinations.
Ranked as Africa’s second-best city for association meetings by ICCA for six consecutive years, Kigali hosted over 25 major events in 2025 alone, including the 13th International AIDS Society Conference. The city has already secured future high-profile events, including the ICCA Congress 2027, and World Nephrology Congress 2029.
The city’s selection is backed by strong infrastructure, including the Kigali Convention Centre (5,000-delegate capacity) and BK Arena (10,000-delegate capacity), supported by more than 10,000 hotel rooms. Located 15 minutes from the city centre, Kigali International Airport connects to over 160 destinations, complemented by a visa-on-arrival policy for all nationalities and the upcoming Bugesera International Airport scheduled for completion in 2026.
“As one of Africa’s fastest-growing meeting destinations, Kigali is a natural fit for BestCities,” said Julia Swanson, board chair, BestCities. “The city exemplifies the qualities that define today’s leading convention destinations: strong knowledge and innovation sectors, a commitment to sustainability, and a keen understanding of how business events can drive social and economic impact. Combined with Rwanda’s extraordinary wildlife, scenery, and cultural experiences, Kigali offers associations and delegates an exceptional destination both inside and outside the meeting room.”
Janet Karemera, CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau, added that joining the alliance will further enhance the city’s visibility and competitiveness in the global business events market.
