Kibuye: The Jewel of Lake Kivu

• HelloMuraho
  [moo-rah-ho]
• GoodbyeMurabeho
  [moo-rah-beh-ho]
• YesYego
  [ye-go]
• NoOya
  [oh-ya]
• Please/You're welcomeMurakoze
  [moo-rah-ko-zay]
• Thank youMurakoze cyane
  [moo-rah-ko-zay chya-nay]
• Excuse me/SorryNdasubirwaho
  [n-da-soo-bee-raw-ho]
• How are you?Amakuru
  [ah-ma-koo-roo]
• Fine. And you?Nziza. Na wewe?
  [n-zee-zah. nah way-way]
• Do you speak English?Mwakoresheje ikinyarwanda?
  [mwa-ko-ray-sheh-jay ee-keen-yah-rwan-da]
• I don't understandNtakindi kumenya
  [n-ta-kin-dee koo-men-ya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNifite kandi menu, cyane
  [nee-fee-tay kan-dee meh-noo, chya-nay]
• I don't eat meatSi kunywa ibiryo
  [see koo-ny-wa ee-beer-yo]
• Cheers!Amahoro!
  [ah-ma-ho-ro]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNifite kugurisha, cyane
  [nee-fee-tay koo-goo-ree-sha, chya-nay]

• Help!Ubwicanyi!
  [oo-wee-chan-yee]
• Go away!Tora ubu!
  [to-rah oo-boo]
• Call the Police!Sibyaza polisi!
  [see-byah-zah po-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Sibyaza daktari!
  [see-byah-zah dak-ta-ree]
• I'm lostNdaravuze
  [n-da-ra-voo-zay]
• I'm illNdi mubwi
  [n-dee moo-bee]

• I'd like to buy...Nifite kugura...
  [nee-fee-tay koo-goo-rah...]
• I'm just lookingNdagira icyo nshaka
  [n-da-gee-ra ee-cho n-sha-ka]
• How much is it?Ni iki gici?
  [nee ee-kee gee-chee?]
• That's too expensiveNi byiza byinshi
  [nee bee-zah bee-n-shee]
• Can you lower the price?Mwemereze umukino
  [mwe-may-ray-zay oo-moo-kee-no]

• What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah ngah-pee]
• It's one o'clockNi saa rimwe
  [nee sah reem-way]
• Half past (10)Saa munani
  [sah moo-nah-nee]
• MorningUmugoroba
  [oo-moo-go-ro-ba]
• AfternoonIgihe cya mu gitondo
  [ee-gee-hay cha moo gee-ton-do]
• EveningUmusi
  [oo-moo-see]
• YesterdayEjo
  [ay-joh]
• TodayEjo
  [ay-joh]
• TomorrowEjo
  [ay-joh]
• 1Rimwe
  [reem-way]
• 2Kabiri
  [ka-bee-ree]
• 3Gatatu
  [ga-ta-too]
• 4Kane
  [ka-nay]
• 5Gatanu
  [ga-ta-noo]
• 6Gatandatu
  [ga-tan-da-too]
• 7Kumwe
  [koom-way]
• 8Ruhoko
  [roo-ho-ko]
• 9Ruguru
  [roo-goo-roo]
• 10Icyumweru
  [ee-choom-way-roo]

• Where's a/the...?Ejo he?
  [ay-joh hay]
• What's the address?Aho ni cyangwa?
  [ah-ho nee chya-ngwah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mwemereze undi (mu masaha)?
  [mwe-may-ray-zay oon-dee (moo mah-sa-ha)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ni iki cy'ubucuruzi kiboneka?
  [nee ee-kee chyo-boo-chu-roo-zee kee-bo-ne-kah]
• A ticket (to ....)Igiciro (ku ....)
  [ee-gee-chee-roh koo]

Kibuye, like the rest of Rwanda, was under German control from the late 19th century until World War I. Post-war, the League of Nations mandated Rwanda and Burundi to Belgium. This period saw the establishment of administrative structures and the introduction of cash crops such as coffee, which significantly impacted the region's economy.

Rwanda gained independence from Belgium on July 1, 1962. In the years that followed, Kibuye, like much of the country, experienced political upheaval and ethnic tensions. The newly formed republic grappled with the challenges of nation-building and managing the diverse interests of its populace.

One of the darkest chapters in Kibuye's history occurred during the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi. Thousands of Tutsis sought refuge in the churches, schools, and other public buildings in Kibuye, only to face brutal massacres. The genocide left deep scars on the community and reshaped the social fabric of the area.

In the aftermath of the genocide, several memorial sites were established in Kibuye to honor the victims and educate visitors about the atrocities. The Kibuye Genocide Memorial Centre, located at the former church site, serves as a poignant reminder of the past and a place of reflection and remembrance.

In recent years, Kibuye has seen significant economic development, particularly in the tourism sector. The town's picturesque location on the shores of Lake Kivu and its mild climate have made it a popular destination for both local and international tourists. Investments in infrastructure and hospitality have transformed Kibuye into a vibrant hub for eco-tourism and cultural exchange.

Kibuye is home to a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and traditions. The local communities celebrate various festivals and ceremonies that reflect their historical and cultural roots. Traditional music, dance, and crafts are integral to life in Kibuye, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region's vibrant cultural identity.

Kibuye hosts several educational institutions that play a crucial role in the region's development. The presence of schools and vocational training centers has fostered a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth. These institutions are key to building a promising future for Kibuye's residents.

Kibuye, also known as Karongi, is located on the eastern shore of Lake Kivu in Rwanda. The nearest international airport is Kigali International Airport, approximately 130 kilometers away. From Kigali, you can take a bus or a private taxi to Kibuye. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road. Buses operated by companies such as Ritco and Capital Express offer regular services between Kigali and Kibuye.

Within Kibuye, transportation options include local taxis and moto-taxis (motorcycle taxis). Moto-taxis are a popular and inexpensive way to get around the town. For longer distances, local buses and shared minibuses (matatus) are available. If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car, though driving conditions may vary. Walking is also a viable option for exploring the town and its immediate surroundings.

The official currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and more remote areas. ATMs are available in Kibuye, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Kibuye is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Kibuye does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Kibuye. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kibuye like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Rwandan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Genocide Memorial Church and the nearby islands on Lake Kivu, such as Amahoro Island, which offer beautiful views and a serene environment. For a unique experience, take a boat tour on Lake Kivu to explore its scenic beauty.