What I Observed (WIO) — Rwanda Edition

During this month, I had the opportunity to visit several African countries. And as I hopped around, it occurred to me that I could be more deliberate about these trips and have my observation antennas up. In Nairobi, Kenya, for example, we were caught up in the dark for more time than I expected as we were being checked out. When they took power supply, I knew the people who shouted were Nigerians. When power was restored, the usual suspects were at work.

It was in Rwanda that I spent the most time, so I have decided to stick to sharing my observations from there.

Before delving into my observations, a quick disclaimer: While travel is a form of higher education, the anecdotes I’m about to share do not substitute for concrete evidence. They are personal impressions gathered during my stay in Kigali, and I encourage fact-checking where necessary.

1. First thing you notice when you get to Kigali is that no one is asking for your visa. The place is visafree. Big deal. It was as hasslefree as moving from Abuja to Lagos without anyone asking, “Anything for the boys?” Just get on the plane and land. Intra Africa trade stands low at just 14.4% of total African exports compared to other continents which have as high as 50%. You cannot be championing PanAfricanism and not praise stuff like this.