The Vibrant Heart of Kigali: Kimihurura

• HelloMuraho
  [moo-rah-ho]
• GoodbyeMurabeho
  [moo-rah-beh-ho]
• YesYego
  [yeh-go]
• NoOya
  [oh-ya]
• Please/You're welcomeNgihe amahirwe
  [ngi-he a-ma-heer-we]
• Thank youMurakoze
  [moo-rah-ko-zeh]
• Excuse me/SorrySindabona
  [sin-da-bo-na]
• How are you?Amakuru?
  [a-ma-koo-roo]
• Fine. And you?Murakose, nawe?
  [moo-rah-ko-seh, nah-weh]
• Do you speak English?Mwakoreshe icyongereza?
  [mwa-kor-esh eh-chyon-ge-reh-zah]
• I don't understandNtakibazo
  [n-tah-ki-ba-zo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNifashishije ijambo ry'ibitaro, cyane
  [nee-fa-shee-shee-jeh ee-jam-bo ree-ee-bee-ta-ro, chya-neh]
• I don't eat meatSi nywa nyama
  [see ny-wa nyah-ma]
• Cheers!Amahoro!
  [a-ma-ho-ro]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNifashishije kugura, cyane
  [nee-fa-shee-shee-jeh koo-goo-rah, chya-neh]

• Help!Ubwira!
  [oo-bwee-rah]
• Go away!Jya kure!
  [jya koo-re]
• Call the Police!Sibyuma Polisi!
  [see-byu-ma po-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Sibyuma Dokotere!
  [see-byu-ma do-ko-te-re]
• I'm lostNjyewe mbere y'urupfu
  [n-jye-we m-be-ree yoo-roop-foo]
• I'm illNjyewe nsanze
  [n-jye-we n-san-ze]

• I'd like to buy...Nifashishije kugura...
  [nee-fa-shee-shee-jeh koo-goo-rah]
• I'm just lookingNifite iby'ibiganiro
  [nee-fee-teee ee-bee-ee-bee-ga-nee-ro]
• How much is it?Ni iki gifite?
  [nee ee-kee gee-fee-teh]
• That's too expensiveNi byiza cyane
  [nee bee-ee-za chya-neh]
• Can you lower the price?Mwakwire kubura amafaranga?
  [mwa-kwee-re koo-boo-rah a-ma-fa-ran-ga]

• What time is it?Saa iki?
  [sa-ah ee-kee]
• It's one o'clockNi saa ya gatatu
  [nee sa-ah ya ga-ta-too]
• Half past (10)Saa tatu n'igice
  [sa-ah ta-too n-ee-gee-chay]
• MorningIgitondo
  [ee-gee-ton-do]
• AfternoonInda
  [een-da]
• EveningIkibondo
  [ee-kee-bon-do]
• YesterdayEjo
  [eh-joh]
• TodayEjo
  [eh-joh]
• TomorrowEjo
  [eh-joh]
• 1Rimwe
  [ree-mwe]
• 2Kabiri
  [ka-bee-ree]
• 3Gatatu
  [ga-ta-too]
• 4Kane
  [ka-neh]
• 5Gatanu
  [ga-ta-noo]
• 6Gatandatu
  [ga-tan-da-too]
• 7Kumwe
  [koo-mweh]
• 8Kiganya
  [kee-gan-ya]
• 9Icyenda
  [ee-chen-da]
• 10Icyumweru
  [ee-choom-weh-roo]

• Where's a/the...?Aho ari...?
  [a-ho a-ree]
• What's the address?Icyo ni aho?
  [ee-cho nee a-ho]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mwakwire nk'ibyari, cyane?
  [mwa-kwee-re nn-kee-byah-ree, chya-neh]
• When's the next (bus)?Iki gihari?
  [ee-kee gee-ha-ree]
• A ticket (to ....)Igice cy'amashuri (ku ....)
  [ee-gee-chay cha-ma-shoo-ree (koo)]

Kimihurura, located in the heart of Kigali, has roots that trace back to the pre-colonial period when it was primarily a rural area inhabited by the Tutsi and Hutu ethnic groups. The region became more structured during the colonial era, particularly under German and later Belgian rule, which introduced significant changes to the social and political landscape of Rwanda. The establishment of administrative centers in Kigali during this time laid the groundwork for the city’s urban development.

Kimihurura was affected by the tragic events of the Rwandan Genocide in 1994, which saw the murder of an estimated 800,000 Tutsi and moderate Hutu over a span of 100 days. The neighborhood, like many others in Kigali, became a site of violence and despair. In the aftermath, Kimihurura and the rest of Kigali underwent a profound transformation as survivors began the arduous process of rebuilding their lives and communities, fostering a spirit of resilience.

Following the genocide, Kimihurura emerged as a symbol of resilience and recovery. The Rwandan government prioritized urban development and infrastructure improvements in Kigali, including Kimihurura. This period saw the establishment of new businesses, schools, and health facilities, reflecting a commitment to modernization and the promotion of unity among the diverse population.

In the 2000s, Kimihurura began to flourish as a cultural and economic hub in Kigali. The neighborhood is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and arts venues that showcase Rwandan culture and heritage. This cultural renaissance is complemented by the area's role in Rwanda's growing economy, attracting both local and international investments, which has contributed to its vibrant atmosphere.

In recent years, Kimihurura has embraced sustainability and green initiatives as part of Kigali's broader vision to become a clean and eco-friendly city. Projects aimed at improving public spaces, such as parks and community gardens, have been implemented. The neighborhood is recognized for its commitment to maintaining a balance between urban development and environmental conservation, reflecting the progressive values of contemporary Rwandan society.

Kimihurura is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Kigali. If you are coming from the city center, you can take a moto-taxi or a regular taxi, which typically costs around 1,500 to 3,000 Rwandan Francs (RWF). Public buses (known locally as 'taxi verts') also serve this area, with routes connecting to other key neighborhoods such as Nyamirambo and Kacyiru. For those arriving from Kigali International Airport, a taxi will cost approximately 10,000 to 15,000 RWF and takes about 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Kimihurura is a relatively small neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, moto-taxis are a popular and convenient option, offering a quick way to navigate the streets. Public transport options include the 'taxi verts' which run through the area, but be prepared for crowded conditions. Bicycles can also be rented in certain parts of Kigali, and bike lanes are available in some areas, making it a pleasant way to explore.

Kimihurura is considered a safe neighborhood for tourists; however, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in poorly lit areas. While violent crime rates are low, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded places or markets. Areas near the bus stations can be busier and may require additional caution. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 913 for medical emergencies in Rwanda. The nearest hospital is the King Faisal Hospital, located a short drive from Kimihurura. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available and can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local places of worship. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. It’s polite to greet people with 'Muraho' (Hello) when entering a home or establishment. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake, and a light bow of the head shows respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes, particularly at street food stalls. Don't refuse food or drink offered to you, as it may be seen as impolite.

To experience Kimihurura like a local, visit the local markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with local vendors, as they often share stories and recommendations. Enjoy a coffee at one of the local cafes, where you can experience the Rwandan coffee culture. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the neighborhood parks, such as the Kimihurura Park, and enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere.