Kigali joins BestCities Global Alliance

Kigali has officially joined the BestCities Global Alliance, becoming the 14th city worldwide and the first in East Africa to be admitted into this prestigious network of destinations recognized for hosting international conferences and business events.

The announcement was made on July 14, 2026, and it highlights Kigali’s growing reputation as a hub for global meetings.

The city’s inclusion was based on several factors, including its cleanliness, safety, and modern infrastructure that makes it welcoming to international visitors. Kigali has consistently ranked second for six consecutive years on the ICCA list of African cities most appreciated by international conference participants. In 2025 alone, Rwanda hosted more than 25 major international conferences, such as the IAS 2025 HIV Conference and the Global NCD Alliance Forum. Looking ahead, Kigali will host the ICCA General Assembly in 2027 and the World Nephrology Congress in 2029.

Julia Swanson, Chair of BestCities Global Alliance, praised Kigali’s rapid growth in the meetings industry, noting its strong innovation capacity and understanding of how business events contribute to social and economic development. Janet Karemera, CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau, emphasized that Kigali’s membership reflects Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening its position in the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry.

By joining BestCities, Kigali now shares a platform with 13 other major cities including Berlin, Cape Town, Copenhagen, Dubai, Dublin, Guadalajara, Houston, Madrid, Melbourne, Singapore, Tokyo, Vancouver, and Washington DC. Founded in 2000, BestCities promotes collaboration, knowledge sharing, and excellence in hosting international events.

Kigali’s entry into this alliance cements its reputation as a premier hub for international conferences. With world‑class infrastructure and a growing portfolio of global events, the city is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s MICE industry and a trusted destination for business tourism.