The wait is finally over, and the Africa Soft Power Summit is now officially upon us! For those attending, we’ve here compiled all the essential information you need to make your trip to Africa’s most welcoming city a hassle-free success. Of course, we’re also here to help with individual enquiries and assistance, so for any information you can’t find listed here, simply drop us a note directly at: asp@theafricasoftpowerproject.com
Main conference venue
The focal point of the proceedings is the 5-star Kigali Serena Hotel, situated in the city’s business and social epicentre. The hotel is just 10km from Kigali International Airport, and just a 5min walk from the Central Business District (CBD):
Kigali Serena Hotel
KN 3 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
+250 788 184 500
https://www.serenahotels.com/kigali
For rooms at the hotel:
- Attendees can book directly with our venue, the Kigali Serena Hotel by emailing Bucyana@serenahotels.com
- And copying in mutesi@serenahotels.com
- Please also cc cynthia@africasoftpower.com so we can stay up-to-speed with bookings our end
Further Accommodation options
If the Serena is full, or you fancy something a bit different, there are a whole host of quality options nearby that provide easy access to the venue. From the Radisson to the Ubumwe Grande, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best of them here.
Covid
A covid test is no longer required upon arrival at Kigali International Airport. For the latest COVID-19 info in Rwanda, click here.
Visas
Citizens of all countries are allowed to get a visa upon arrival without prior application. Citizens of country members to the African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie can get free visas upon arrival in Rwanda for a visit of 30 days. More information on immigration and visas here.
Transportation
We will have buses to take guests from the airport to the hotel, for your convenience. For those who do not want to wait for the bus, Kigali is one of the safest cities in the world and you will be able to get a taxi from the airport to your hotel for about $20 -$30. For your convenience, please bring some change.
Money
Most international cards are accepted in Rwanda. But there’s a good bureau de change at the airport if you would like to get some Rwandan Francs.
Travel Items
We will be surrounded by shops, and both the Serena and surrounding hotels are extremely helpful, but your peace of mind checklist to remember items like:
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Beauty & Self-care
- Clothes for formal, social, and lounging occasions, as well as swimwear if you want to use the pool
- Medication: Malaria tablets, painkillers, anti-histamine, suncream, etc.
- Devices: phone, laptop, chargers, socket converters
- Glasses/sunglasses/contacts
Local customs
Littering is illegal in Rwanda.
Mobile & Data
Most hotels have good WiFi so you can stay connected, but you can also get a mobile SIM card at the airport should you need one.
We hope you enjoy your stay! All the latest Summit details – including main conferences and supporting activities and events – can be found here, and again, please feel free to contact us directly with any enquiries anytime at: asp@theafricasoftpowerproject.com