Kigali Marriott Hotel
ISSUE 008 | July - Aug - Sept | 2019
Chef Eduardo and the 1 meter
Surf & Turf Page 9
Introducing our
Black
Burger
ORDER NOW
at Iriba Bar and Terrace
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Introducing our
Black
Burger ORDER NOW
at Iriba Bar & Terrace
Thank you for the great feedback NICE RETREAT BEFORE SAFARI
15
%
OFF
The Saray Signature Facial in July/August BEST TRICKS FOR SKIN TO BEAT THE DRY SEASON
Duration 60 minutes A combination of natural botanicals, vitamins, antioxidants and plant derived proteins nourish and revitalize the skin. This is enhanced with a specialized mask customized to the client’s skin type and a relaxing head, shoulder, and neck massage. RWF 38,250 per person Reservations tel: +250 222 111 111
We stayed here with our children for five nights before and after a gorilla trek/safari. The hotel is modern and beautiful. The staff were helpful at every turn. Laundry service was prompt and the restaurants were delicious (really enjoyed the Italian one...but be warned, portions are HUGE). We didn’t try out the pool since it was raining, but it looked beautiful. Don’t hesitate to give it a try! ~ AC
THANK YOU FOR YOUR STELLAR SERVICE Had a pleasant stay at Kigali Marriott Hotel. Special thanks to Yvette, Josiane, Michel and their Manager-Alison for their stellar service. I would definitely stay there again and recommend to everyone who wants to visit Kigali.~MB
Kigali Marriott Hotel
VERY NICE AND SPACIOUS Brilliant Magazine is yours to keep, feel free to take me with you and peruse through Kigali Marriott’s offers, promos and news. For more updated information, be sure to visit our website: www.kigalimarriott.com and our social media platforms. Sales & Marketing: Victoria Obiakor | Creative Layout: Robert Wambugu Contributors: Josephine Sharila, Victoria Obiakor, Robert Wambugu, Simon Hodson, Alyson Hayes, Sarah Murimi Photography: Serge Muhizi (Igihe)
Excellent hotel and conference venues Professional, friendly and welcoming staff. The “Soko” Hotel Restaurant offers a rich variety of delicious dishes, fresh squeezed juices. The hotel has big conference rooms, WIFI with strong signal. The bedrooms are very nice and spacious, very clean hotel and you get excellent service with a smile. ~SM
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Opening soon!
Get to know SoKo
Monthly offers just around the corner Watch this space
Don’t miss
Nyama Choma Best Picks
Grill & Chill | 27th July & 31st Aug Eat all you can plus 2 for 1 offers
Oktober Fest Malaika Gardens Live band, beer and German buffet
Best Picks
Best Picks
27th, 28th and 29th September 2019 4th, 5th and 6th October 2019
It’s Raining
Burgers
Buy 1 Get 1 free
every Tuesday @Iriba Bar & Terrace 5:30pm - 7:30pm
+ a load of French fries
Saray Spa Specials • Fruit Scrubs | Papaya, Rose and Orange body scrubs, Rwf 18,000 • Thousand Hills Spa Package for the month of July and August at Rwf 71,350. • 15% off on the All natural facial. • 20% discount for individual monthly gym memberships valid until 31st July Tel: +250 222 111 111 Email: sarayspa.kigali@marriott.com
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Your home away from home Dear Friends of Kigali Marriott, Summer is here again and we are delighted to provide you with the countless activities the hotel has to offer. Kigali is a fascinating city for all and we have a lot in store for our guests and residents – to “wow” you. For this quarter, the following awaits: Iriba Bar & Terrace – a coffee shop by day and a bar by night filled with live entertainment. Join us from Wednesdays to Saturdays for live music by our Resident Bands – From Motown Classics, Jazzy and Modern Day Tunes – we have it all! This Quarter, watch the Culinary team unleash our exciting Black Burger
– a unique fish burger that we are showcasing in our city and not just that, discover what other special promos we have in store for you.
to our Newsletter? You will receive monthly updates about the various offers we have from Staycations to Culinary delights.
Cucina Restaurant – our authentic Italian restaurant awaits you as well, please feel free to invite friends and family to experience a cozy evening – also try out our Wine Down Wednesdays - we urge you not to be shy.
It is never boring at Kigali Marriott and while you are at it, take the time to read about a new concept we are unraveling – Catering by Kigali Marriott – more information inside
And of course, as the city gets busier and busier, why not unwind in our Saray Spa? Every month the team present you with unique offers that you will surely find hard to miss. And besides our magazine, to keep you informed, why not simply sign up
See you soon at the Kigali Marriott.
Warmest Regards, Rex A.G. Nijhof
New name. Fresh look. Same great loyalty program 5
International Chocolat e Day
Patrick Rukumbiri, Iriba Bar & Terrace Barista
13th
September
Barista Tales We craft our coffee with passion and our guests in mind By Times Correspondent, Iriba Bar and Terrace is more than just cocktails. It’s also well-known for its delicious, full-bodied coffee. The secret behind good coffee is the art of the maker. Patrick Rukumbiri has been in the barista business since its inception in Rwanda in 2008 “when NAEB (National Agriculture Export Board) was training baristas to make good coffee in Kigali.” Today, he has a variety of his own coffee that he makes for clients at Kigali Marriott with designs that
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people cannot find anywhere else. “My most loved coffee is called Peppermint Mocha which is preferred by people who like flavored coffee. However, for those who want the real taste and aroma of roasted coffee, cappuccino is perfect. Many people call me and alert me to prepare them a coffee before they arrive and it is a wonderful feeling to know people choose to come to Iriba for the unique coffee,” Rukumbiri said.
Just as diverse as chocolate is, International Chocolate Day also has a variety of dates, showing how significant it is. Chocolate is one of the most popular desserts and always brings a smile when shared. Here at Kigali Marriott, we have decided to celebrate one of the most tempting delicacies on September 13 at Cucina Italian Restaurant. For only Rwf 18,000, enjoy chocolate fondue in Cucina; add a glass of Moet & Chandon Brut Champagne only at Rwf 35,000 per person for a perfect combination. For reservations, please call: Tel: +250 222 111 111
Enjoy a lavish family Weekend Brunch with pool access
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eekends wouldn’t be complete if you are not surrounded by the people you love and at the same time enjoying a bountiful lavish brunch specially designed to mesmerize the whole family. Our weekend brunch runs from 12pm - 4pm every Saturday and Sunday and includes an endless array of delicious international cuisines, a medley of breakfast and lunch items and tempting sweets. As you savor a variety of brunch
options, take a refreshing dip at our luxury pool or just laze in the sun on our poolside. The kids can also enjoy a jump on our bouncing castle and play some ball games at Ituze garden. Do not forget that you also got an option of celebrating birthdays, reunions, anniversaries, and other memorable events at the terrace as you brunch. Best Beat Band led by Kiki Toure performs soft music on the terrace to elevate the mood of the day.
Kigali Marriott Newsletter Don’t miss our future events. Scan the code and sign-up for our newsletter
Enjoy Eid al Adha Brunch Buffet 12pm - 4pm @ Rwf 28,000 per person
50% off kids age 6 - 12, Free for 6 and below
www.mileisure.com/signupstart/rwa/kgl/kglmc
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LIFELONG DREAMS TURNED REALITY
F O R A N U N F O R G E T TA B L E H A P P I LY E V E R A F T E R Weddings at Kigali Marriott Hotel are as original as the couples they celebrate. Create menus that excite your palate, add details that evoke romance and select an exceptional space where you can begin your life together. We invite you to find inspiration with the help of our team as you plan your dream wedding.
TO B O O K YO U R D R E A M W E D D I N G PLEASE CALL TEL: +250 222 111 204 MOB:+250 725 880 339 8
The 1 meter feast of
Surf & Turf Soko Restaurant introduced the ‘1 meter’ Surf and Turf this July and Chef Eduardo Cornish takes us through the newest succulent delicacy that promises to delight our guests taste buds.
What does Surf ‘n’ Turf mean? Surf ‘n’ Turf basically comes from Surf, which means seafood and turf which means grazing animals specifically beef. The seafood could be shrimp, prawn or lobster. What’s special about the new 1 meter Surf ‘n’ Turf at Soko Restaurant? Our 1 meter surf ‘n’ turf is unique in all aspects. We use quality fresh lobster, prawns and beef that are rich in nutrients such as protein, energy supplying iron, zinc and vitamin B12
making it a delicacy rich in flavor. More so we are the only hotel in the country that does amazing Surf ‘n’ Turf. What would you recommend for people who will try it for the first time? For the first timers, we are always delighted to recommend Surf ‘n’ Turf that has been paired with a glass of red or white wine. This goes down well. The 1 meter meal is designed for 4 people, so drag your friends and your family for this culinary adventure.
Do I need to make an order in advance for my Surf ‘n’ Turf? Not at all, but it’s recommended so that our Chefs can carefully prepare the meal as we await your arrival. What else does Soko Restaurant have in the coming future? We have our a-la-carte menu with extra offerings, just in case you are looking to try something different than our buffet.
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HOW DO YOU
LOVE YOUR PIZZA?
Grab your hot, fresh and delicious Authentic Italian home made pizzas Starting from: Rwf 8,000 Open: 12pm - 3pm / 5pm - 11pm *Take away specials also available 10
RELOADED
GREAT BANDS, 1 STAGE
who emerges the winner? great selection of food & beverage at KILIMANJARO BALLROOM COMING SOON ENTRY FEE TO BE ANNOUNCED
Umuganura Join us for Umuganura Brunch and indulge in traditional Rwandan delicacies with sounds of live music Soko Restaurant August 2nd, 12pm - 4pm Starting Rwf 28,000 per person 11
Introducing
Outside Catering by Kigali Marriott Hotel Our team now specializes in outdoor catering for corporate and social events, home parties, engagements and weddings offering a variety of menu choices, including local and International cuisines.
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ant to organize a get together with friends? Have a memorable house or garden party? What about hosting over 600 people at a concert or wedding? Guess what? Why not let us come to you? Experiencing the excellent Kigali Marriott hospitality is not confined only at the hotel. Over the past year, our outside catering team has come together to create a perfect combination of a bespoke and unique experience that will appeal to your guests. Whether you are looking for a menu that cuts through
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local or international cuisine, or just a simple but succulent meal that leaves a tasty surprise, our diverse chefs with over 30 years combined experience are pleased to create a customized menu of either buffet, BBQ’s or canapÊs for your occasion. Our sales and banquets team work with you to ensure that your needs and budgets are met including the highest levels of service for an overwhelming success. To book your next outdoor event catering, please call +250 222 111 204
Wined
DOWN WEDNESDAY
CATERING BY
Join us every Wednesday for wine flights and bites at only Rwf 18,000 per person 5pm - 11pm Cucina Restaurant
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Kigali Marriott joins in the monthly cleanup exercise, Umuganda Kigali Marriott handed over money that will help pay Community Based Health Insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) for 500 residents. By James P. Nkurunziza | NewTimes
K
igali Marriott Hotel in May 2019 gave back to the community by reaching out to residents of Rwesero Cell in Nyamirambo Sector, Nyarugenge District where they participated in the monthly community exercise, Umuganda. The activity is part of the hotel’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme dubbed Spirit to Serve.During this particular Umuganda, the hotel partnered with the City of Kigali to assist residents of
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Rwesero cell construct a one-kilometer road, complete with drainage channels. Staff members of Kigali Marriott Hotel were led by the senior Human Resource Manager Nicole Ingabire who expressed her joy for having come to join the residents of the community in doing work that’s beneficial to everyone. The hotel associates came with even better news, where on their behalf, Ingabire handed over money that will help pay Community Based Health Insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) for 500 of
the residents. Emmanuel Utebuke, the head of Rwesero village thanked Kigali Marriott Hotel for choosing their village to conduct Umuganda, adding that the health insurance was very vital. “We are really grateful to the management of the hotel for having chosen us and offering their support,” he said. Kigali Marriott continues to work with its partners to serve the communities surrounding it.
than
You got more
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hours in Rwanda?
Compiled by Robert Wambugu Remarkable Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills offers both residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the rich mix of cultural and natural attractions. Rwanda is constantly evolving and reinventing itself, offering passionate travellers new possibilities. Check below some of what you can expect:
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK Akagera National Park is located in the North East of Rwanda. Home to large predators like lions, leopard, hyena, side-striped jackal, zebras, gazelles, crocodiles, hippos and the African elephant.
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The unique opportunity to see gorillas in their natural habitat is unforgettable. Encounter gorillas as they go about their daily lives, with expert trackers and guides.
LAKE KIVU (GISENYI)
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NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK This majestic rainforest is filled with nature and wildlife. Hiking or even biking the beautiful terrain, tracking the famous chimpanzees, experiencing the canopy walk, witnessing beautiful birds, relaxing by waterfalls are just a glimpse of activities that Nyungwe offers.
Rubavu (also known as Gisenyi) is a waterfront town located on the shores of Lake Kivu, one Africa’s great bodies of water. At only an hour away from Volcanoes National Park, Rubavu is a great way to unwind after trekking adventures. Enjoy kayaking and other water sports or delight yourself in a dish of local fried sambaza and mizuzu.
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For more information Contact our Concierge team at the reception. Images: Rwanda Tourism, Kingfisher Journeys and Travel Rwanda
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PRESENTS
N YA M A
CHOMA GRILL & CHILL LIVE ENTERTAINMENT BY DJ IRA EAT ALL YOU CAN BBQ FOR RWF 20,000 PER PERSON
50% OFF FOR KIDS 6 - 12YRS | FREE FOR KIDS UNDER 6YRS FREE BOUNCING CASTLE ACCESS
SATURDAY, JULY 27 TH & AUGUST 31 ST 2019 4PM - 11PM AT IRIBA BAR & TERRACE
Celebrate
Early Diwali with a sumptuous
Dinner Buffet 16
Soko Restaurant, Wednesday, 25th September 2019 7pm - 11pm @ Rwf 28,000 per person 50% off kids age 6 - 12, Free for 6 and below
Earn 1,500 bonus points on stays of two nights or more all at 7,000+ participating hotels worldwide. Register by September 2, 2019. Stay at any of our participating hotels and resorts worldwide between July 2 and September 16, 2019. Earn 1,500 bonus points on stays* of two nights or more. No earning limits. Book now to start earning at 7000+ participating hotels. When you’re ready, redeem points for free nights, flights, exclusive experiences and so much more.
Join us for a 2 - Course
Business Lunch at Cucina Italian Restaurant 12pm - 3pm at Rwf 16,000 per person
ENDLESS EARNING Registration Period: June 18, 2019 – September 2, 2019 Earning Period: July 2, 2019 – September 16, 2019
Please visit www.marriottbonvoy.com/endlessearning or check with our reception for assistance.
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BRILLIANT HOSTING
CELEB R ATING
LATI FAH
U M UG W A N E Z A P A SSION F OR W EL L NESS
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“I always wanted to make people feel comfortable and good about themselves,” ~ Latifah By Robert Wambugu
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atifah will tell you that she likes to illuminate people’s lives, that the secret of a happy life are the continuous small treats, that she feels at peace when its time to rejuvenate and life gets better when it aims towards relaxation from the hustles and bustles of our everyday lives.
“The training involved learning different holistic massage techniques and how to handle diverse needs of our guests,“ she adds.
Born in Kigali - Rwanda, Latifah aspired to be a nurse but changed her ambitions later on and chose to be a therapist.
“Massage therapy helps the body in many ways. It relaxes muscle tissue, improves circulation which in turn boosts the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscle cells,” she says.
The journey to become a professional Spa Therapist was not by chance as she narrates. “I always wanted to make people feel comfortable and good about themselves,” she says. She joined Kigali Marriott Hotel in October 2017 and went through a series of trainings in preparation for her role as a Spa Therapist.
The fast paced world has made people more busy and over time they neglect the most important part of them which is their body.
tissue, relieve strained muscle and joint pain. Latifah also recommends Deep Tissue Massage which involves applying firm pressure and slow strokes to reach deeper layers of muscle or Swedish Massage better suited for people interested in relaxation and tension relief. “Our Spa has also created packages that guests can experience ranging from a combination of scrubs, aromatherapy, facials and treatments“ she adds.
Latifah was part of a group of Saray Spa therapists who underwent intense training on Balinese Massage techniques.
Due to her exemplary performance, Latifah was awarded the Gem of The Month for May 2019. She looks forward to seeing you at Saray Spa.
Balinese treatment originated from the Bali region of Indonesia and was exclusively introduced in Rwanda at the Saray Spa. It works to soothe damaged
Book your next treatment by calling +250 222 111 111 or email the Spa on sarayspa.kigali@marriott.com
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Cucina Restaurant The home of authentic Italian cuisine
Centuries of perfection with sumptuous flavors
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ucina is the Italian restaurant at the Kigali Marriott. I was at the hotel constantly because it became my favorite place in Kigali to work from. I was impressed by the Italian themed outlet. The restaurant is open, airy, and spacious. I’m not exactly an interior design aficionado, but I think it looks great and I like that it has a separate private room for guests to have a meeting or a private dinner. There’s
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also some seating outdoors probably more of a spot for dinner dining on a beautiful Kigali night. In my last visit, I do remember having a glorious Caesar salad, its not in the menu anymore but they do have a few other interesting salads instead, including one with chicken breast, apricots, sun dried tomatoes, and walnuts and another with honey and orange poached shrimp on mixed greens.
It’s the steak that brought me to Cucina on this most recent trip. I’ve slowly been eating my way through the city in aid of my best steaks in Kigali article and Cucina was another stop on this tasty list. To be honest, I was won over by this meal. The fillet steak was perfectly cooked and the bed of mushrooms it was sitting on was amazing. I took half of it home for lunch the next day. Cucina also has great selection of
The fillet steak was perfectly cooked and the bed of mushrooms it was sitting on was amazing. I took half of it home for lunch the next day. interesting pasta and risotto dishes. For meat eaters you’ll have a choice between a t-bone or fillet steak, rack of lamb, grilled baby chicken, baked capitan fish, a mixed seafood grill and baked salmon. Cucina has now introduced a Business lunch that offers a 2-course meal at Rwf 16,000 per person. It’s a great deal I’ve always enjoyed my meals at Cucina. The quality of the food and wine are excellent, the service is professional, and you can always count on having a reliably delicious meal here. By Kirsty Henderson, LivinginKigali.com
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The secrets of detox and aroma therapy treatment
S
aray spa is an oasis that awakens and inspires. Cast your worries aside and allow our award winning team treat you to the best a spa can offer. Our focus in the coming months are two ranges of treatments with wonderful results for our guests. DETOX MASSAGE A body mask combined with specialized drainage massage techniques on the hips and thighs to help smooth the appearance of cellulite in addition to detoxifying the body with a gentle abdominal massage. Daily life brings toxins from several sources e.g. pesticides, junk food, and other environmental or recreational toxins that clog the body and prevent a healthy, happy body and mind. With detox massage, the key areas for waste removal are stimulated, making it easier for the body to release toxins. Detox massage techniques help strengthen and relax your muscles; alternating pressures on muscles help to strengthen, stimulate, and ultimately release tension and toxins that have built up.
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Detox massage, like all massages, helps The five essential oils used here have improve circulation throughout the body. various benefits to the user Better circulation means more oxygen, nutrients and energy for the entire body! 1. Black seed massage oil – Has antioxidant properties AROMATHERAPY 2. Lemon grass massage oil - Feels wonderful and inviting A therapeutic massage using essential oils to soothe you. 3. Eucalyptus massage oil – Calming and opens up the sinuses Aromatherapy focuses on the uses of 4. Orange massage oil - Cheer & Uplift various scents for therapeutic benefits. Spirits Regular treatments allow us to cope with 5. Rose massage oil - Rejuvenates the emotional conditions like stress, sadness, skin irritability, and the exposure to specific Get your reservation today! scents can promote healthy digestion, Tel: +250 222 111 111 improve circulation, and offer a range of Email: sarayspa.kigali@marriott.com other benefits.
S A R AY S PA
O P E N D AY Saturday, 21 September, 2019 10am - 4pm
Experience rejuvenation, renewal and great discounts at the Saray Spa Open Day • 20% discount on Annual and Bi- annual gym membership enrollments and a complimentary massage (same day or get a bounce back voucher) • 10% discounts on monthly and other gym memberships. • Yoga session at RWF 15,000 per hour with access to the steam & sauna • C-Products Flash Sale N.B: Complimentary bites, juice and salads will be available
Reservations: Tel: +250 222 111 111 sarayspa.kigali@marriott.com 23
WEEKEND S TAY C AT I O N Take advantage of this exclusive offer tailored for Rwanda nationals, resident East and Central Africans.
Book the ultimate Kigali staycation to escape your everyday routine and enjoy the perfect weekend getaway the way you like to. Enjoy the little spheres of respite in our stylish and luxurious rooms with access to the hotel swimming pool, gym, steam and sauna for only USD 150 a night. Offer valid Friday, Saturday and Sunday night only for two based on availability. Bed and breakfast. Advance reservation required and proof of residency upon check-in. Rates are per room, per night.
KIGALI MARRIOTT HOTEL K N 3 A V E N U E , N YA R U G E N G E D I S T R I C T KIGALI - RWANDA TEL: +250 222 111 111, kigalimarriott.com
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Kigali Marriott’s
Group Dinners
Rwf 20,ooo Per Person
DINNER FOR GROUPS Enjoy our succulent international dinner buffet at only Rwf 20,000 per person plus one complimentary wine bottle for groups of 10 and above. 7pm - 11pm | Soko Restaurant
To reserve your table: Call tel: (+250) 222 111 111 This offer does not apply for special holidays and cannot be combined with any other Marriott promotion.
Advertise with us
and reach your top audience
Brilliant Magazine connects your brand with business and leisure travellers from Africa and around the globe. Our distribution includes our top clients and partners in Kigali and Nairobi, hotel guests, outlets and our Executive Lounge. All advertising inquiries can be addressed to Ms Josephine Sharila, Email: info.kigali@marriott.com or call telephone: (+250) 222 111 111
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Catch Live Entertainment
by our Resident Bands
(MoTown Wednesdays)
Neptunez Band (Ladies Night)
Jambo Band (Variety Nights)
Micho Band (Ultra Saturdays)
Best Beat (Kiki Toure)
Every Thursday 8pm - 11pm Iriba Bar & Terrace
Every Thursday 8pm - 11pm Iriba Bar & Terrace
Every Friday 8pm - 11pm Iriba Bar & Terrace
Every Saturday 8pm - 11pm Iriba Bar & Terrace
Every Sunday 12:30pm - 3:30pm Soko Restaurant
Micho Band
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WEEKEND MEETINGS PACKAGE Enjoy reduced rates when you book your meetings from Friday through Monday
Conduct your business meetings and conferences at Kigali Marriott Hotel on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday and get a discounted rate of Rwf 30,000 per person. Choose from our half-day or full-day meeting packages and our expert team of planners will work with you to deliver a truly unforgettable experience. Offer valid from Friday to Monday only based on availability.
KIGALI MARRIOTT HOTEL K N 3 A V E N U E , N YA R U G E N G E D I S T R I C T KIGALI - RWANDA TEL: +250 222 111 111, kigalimarriott.com
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Byuka Uri MILLIONAIRE
with airtel money Dial *500#
10M
RWF
MONTHLY
2M
RWF
WEEKLY
500K
RWF
DAILY
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THE SMARTPHONE NETWORK