Four Eye-Opening Insights That Kigali Taught Me About Community and Change

Travel is a powerful teacher, opening your eyes to new ways of living, thinking, and doing things you might only have read about, watched in a movie, or heard in passing. For the curious and empathetic, it offers endless opportunities to uncover ideas that challenge your worldview, excite your imagination, or inspire a deeper understanding of the world.

Every journey I embark on is guided by this spirit of discovery, as I set out not only to learn something new but also to share it with others, hoping to spark inspiration or curiosity in someone else.

On my recent trip to Kigali, Rwanda, four key observations stood out to me — lessons that, if embraced, could offer valuable insights into improving our ways of life. Here’s what I discovered and why I believe they matter

1. Boda-Boda Culture with a Touch of Class

In Kenya, motorbike taxis are called Boda-Boda. In Kigali, the same service exists but with remarkable upgrades that set them apart — what I like to call Boda-Boda with class. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, they are known as Okada or Achaba, each reflecting the local culture, yet the concept remains the same: a fast, convenient way to navigate bustling cities. What makes Kigali’s version truly stand out, however, goes beyond just a name — it’s about the experience. Let me explain.

First, the majority are electric vehicles. No more reliance on fuel, which not only reduces costs but also significantly lowers carbon emissions. Riders simply visit charging stations to swap their batteries seamlessly, ensuring they stay on the move. This system not only benefits the environment but also creates additional job opportunities in battery management and charging services.

Second, safety and professionalism. Every boda-boda rider wears a helmet and provides one for their passenger — a small gesture that leaves a big impression. Beyond being a safety measure, this simple act elevates the profession and adds a sense of responsibility and care to their work.

2. A City Confident in Its Peace

During my interactions with Kigali residents, one recurring theme stood out: their confidence in the city’s low crime rate. On three separate occasions, different people mentioned how peaceful the city is, with some even claiming that it’s safe to go jogging at 3 a.m.!

While I didn’t stay long enough to verify these claims personally, their pride and assurance were palpable. It was refreshing to hear locals express trust in their community’s safety — a stark contrast to the concerns that often dominate conversations elsewhere.

3. Uber Isn’t King Everywhere

Having relied on Uber in most of my travels, I assumed it would be my go-to in Kigali. But to my surprise, Uber didn’t dominate here. When the app failed to display locations for my trip, I called the hotel reception, only to learn that ‘Move’ is Kigali’s preferred ride-hailing app.

This revelation sparked a thought: why can’t more countries foster homegrown alternatives to multinational giants? With the right policies and support, local companies can not only compete but thrive, creating opportunities and building national pride in the process.

4. Speed Limit Governance Done Right

One of the most striking observations during my stay was how cautious drivers were about adhering to speed limits. Curious, I asked one of my drivers why this was so, and he explained that Kigali’s roads are monitored by speed cameras. Violators face hefty fines of up to 70,000 RWF, ensuring that even the most reckless drivers stay in line.

This got me thinking: technology-backed enforcement can truly transform behavior when implemented transparently and consistently. While in some places such systems might be misused, Kigali’s approach shows how technology can promote safety without corruption.

In Summary

These observations reminded me that small, thoughtful changes can create ripple effects that transform entire communities. Whether it’s embracing cleaner transport, fostering a culture of safety, supporting local businesses, or enforcing rules with integrity, there’s always something to learn and adapt.

Now, I’d love to hear from you: what unique practices or systems have you encountered in your travels or your own community?

Share your reflections, and let’s celebrate these moments of inspiration together.