Volunteer Programs in Kigali, Rwanda

Kigali’s landscape is one of natural wonders, deep valleys, and glorious hills. While volunteering in Kigali, experience the land of a thousand hills, wildlife and natural undulating savannah creating a beautiful culture and great diversity. Kigali’s fast-growing economy has created a mixed ecosystem where determination to grow and improve is balanced by the hospitality of an affectionate people.  

Popular causes/program types in Kigali. Reach, preach, and teach! After years of civil war the city of Kigali has embraced eco-tourism, and green development, and is turning the Nyandungu wetland into an eco-tourism park. There are numerous organizations promoting education in Rwanda, too. Volunteers in Kigali interested in education, library work, and child development will find many great places to lend their time and talents. 

Summer/short term programs. If you only have a summer break or even a semester away, you will still find many programs that will allow you to take advantage of all the benefits of volunteering abroad in Kigali.

Long-term volunteer stints. Commit to volunteer projects in Kigali where both expats and travelers enjoy the opportunity to develop a close connection to the community, learning a language, having an impact on the lives of people in need.

Kigali has a very small downtown with residential areas that spread across the hills. There is a large skyscraper, which is made of shining blue glass, in the Kigali City Tower—we recommend a visit during downtime on volunteer programs in Kigali! Kigali is the largest city in Rwanda and is one of the most organized, clean, and beautiful in Africa.  

A must-visit is the Kigali Farmers and Artisans Market which brings local farmers and producers together with fresh fruits, meats, and vegetables. The artisanal works, like clothes, shoes, and metal artwork, are unique. The jams, breads, and cheeses are from various local artisans and offer volunteers in Kigali a sight, smell, and taste sensation while also supporting the growth of businesses and families.

An average rent for a single bedroom house in Kigali City will be about one hundred US dollars. If you volunteer in Kigali, you can live very cheaply compared to living in the United States or other countries. For specific assistance there are grants and scholarships for volunteering abroad in Kigali, and options like FundMyTravel, where you can explain your desire for an opportunity to develop your own understanding of life for people across continental borders.

There is plenty to keep you busy in Kigali. As one of Africa’s greenest and cleanest cities, Kigali needs volunteers in gardening, farming, and entrepreneurship. Volunteers with leadership, business management, and entrepreneurial skills can help develop sustainable revenue by building businesses in farming, soap making, food processing, or Internet and computer servicing. Volunteer opportunities in Kigali also include healthcare, business management, and education.

Kigali is one of the safest cities in Rwanda, so use your free time to enjoy local sites. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a must. Lavish on fresh fruits in the Kimironko Market, enjoy the Inema Arts Center to experience an explosion of creativity, art, and color, ride Boda Boda motorbikes, or try dining on beautiful brochettes. During downtime, grab a book and a cup of Rwandan coffee at the Kigali Public Library, and check out the Shokola Storytellers Cafe on the top floor for beautiful views of Kigali. Learn to cook Rwandan food at the Nyamirambo Women’s Center and prepare dishes over coals in the courtyard floor. Finally, be sure to make time for one of the gorilla trekking trips near Volcanoes National Park!