Language

Rwanda’s official languages are Kinyarwanda, English, French, and Kiswahili, widely used in business and regional communication. Kinyarwanda is spoken by the vast majority of the population and serves as the common national language, while English and French are commonly used in government, education, and international engagements.

Seasons

Rwanda experiences a temperate tropical highland climate due to its elevation. The country has two rainy seasons (March–May and September–December) and two relatively dry seasons (June–August and January–February).

May in Rwanda marks the end of the long rainy season, featuring warm temperatures and frequent, often heavy, rain showers. Daily highs typically reach around 790F (260C), with nights cooling down to about 630F (170C). Expect high humidity, with roughly 17 days of rain throughout the month, though sunny periods are common.

Time zone

Rwanda operates on Central Africa Time (CAT), GMT+2, throughout the year. There are no daylight-saving time changes.

Currency & Currency Exchange

The Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the official currency of Rwanda, and most transactions are conducted in the local currency. Delegates carrying foreign currency, particularly US dollars, can exchange their money at commercial banks, licensed foreign exchange bureaus, and major hotels located in the central business district and shopping malls. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments, while mobile payment services are also increasingly common.

Getting to and around Kigali

Transport in Kigali is predominantly provided by regulated buses that operate along designated routes connecting different parts of the city to the city centre. These buses are run by private companies under government regulation and typically include larger buses serving major corridors as well as smaller feeder buses serving surrounding neighbourhoods. In addition to buses, other common modes of transport include motorcycle taxis (moto-taxis), regular taxis, ride-hailing services, and private vehicles.

Ride-hailing services in Rwanda, particularly in Kigali, are dominated by app-based motorbike (moto) and car services, with Yego (Yego Moto/Yego Cabs) and Move (by Volkswagen) being prominent options. These services provide safe, regulated, and affordable transport, allowing users to pay with Mobile Money or cash. Anyone visiting Kigali is encouraged to download one of these apps for convenient and reliable transport within the city.

Payments for bus fares are generally made using the Tap&Go smart card system, while taxis and ride-hailing services can be paid in Rwandan francs (RWF), the local currency, or through mobile payment options where available. It is advisable for delegates to carry some Rwandan francs for transportation and other small expenses during their stay in Kigali.

For those who may wish to travel outside Kigali, Rwanda has a good local transportation system for inter-regional connectivity, a well-developed road network, and plenty of well-maintained, modern buses and minibuses, some of which have Wi-Fi. Cars and drivers can be hired from Kigali, and most roads are well maintained.

It is strictly forbidden and illegal to drink and drive in Rwanda. The country has a zero-tolerance policy regarding intoxicated driving, with severe legal penalties for violators.

Power Plugs and Sockets

Rwanda operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. Power plugs and sockets are generally of type C (the two round-pin plug) and type J (similar to type C but with an additional grounding pin). Visitors may wish to carry a universal power adapter for convenience.

Sustainability guidelines for the 2026 NAP Expo participants

Rwanda enforces strict regulations on plastic bags. Participants are therefore advised not to bring plastic carrier bags into the country. Where necessary, facilities are available at the airport to transfer items into environmentally friendly alternatives. Throughout the event, participants are encouraged to use reusable water bottles and make use of the refill stations provided at the venue.

Please dispose of waste responsibly by using the clearly labelled bins for recycling, plastics, compost, and general waste.

To reduce environmental impact, participants are urged to limit printing. Digital materials, including QR-coded programs and mobile resources, will be made readily available.

Kindly avoid single-use plastics, particularly in packaging materials.

Participants are also encouraged to opt for low-emission transport options, such as shuttles, walking, or carpooling, whenever possible. Your cooperation is essential in ensuring that the 2026 NAP Expo is conducted in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.

Emergency Contacts

Delegates are encouraged to save the following numbers on their mobile phones and keep a list with their travel documents:

• Emergency (Police): 112
• Fire Brigade: 111
• Ambulance / Medical Emergency: 912
• Rwanda National Police: +250 788 311 155
• King Faisal Hospital Kigali: +250 252 588 888
• University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK): +250 252 574 444