Car Free Day in Kigali – Walking, Friendship, and Perfect Timing

Sunday, February 22, 2026 | Kigali, Rwanda

This past Sunday, my wife and I joined Car Free Day here in Kigali for the very first time, and what a memorable one it turned out to be.

We woke up around 6:30 am to the gentle sound of light rain tapping against the windows. For a moment, we debated whether we should still go. The sky looked uncertain, and crawling back under a warm blanket felt tempting. But then, just as we were getting ready, the rain stopped. That small break in the weather felt like a sign, so we grabbed our gear and headed out.

We parked at Question Coffee and walked over toward the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to meet a small group of Japanese expat friends. The plan wasn’t just exercise, we were also playing Pikmin Bloom together, enjoying one last Car Free Day walk with a dear friend who will soon be leaving Rwanda and returning to Japan. It made the morning feel a little more meaningful.

An Unexpectedly High-Security Morning

As we approached the area near the Kigali Convention Centre, it became clear that this Car Free Day was not typical. Security was tight; police, military, and even undercover personnel were visibly present. There was even a bag screening required to enter certain areas.

We later learned that President Paul Kagame was participating in the event that morning. Since it was our first time attending, we weren’t sure what “normal” looked like, but our friends confirmed that this level of security was unusual. It certainly added a unique atmosphere to the morning.

Despite the heightened security, the energy was positive. Families were out walking and cycling, runners filled the roads, and the usual hum of engines was replaced with conversation, laughter, and footsteps.

10 Kilometers of Conversation

From 8:00 am to 10:00 am, we walked nearly 10 kilometers together, catching Pikmin, talking about life, reflecting on Rwanda, and discussing what comes next for our friend heading back to Japan. There’s something special about walking side by side with people you care about. Conversations flow differently. Memories settle deeper.

After our walk, we stopped at Rubia Coffee for drinks before heading home. As we pulled into our driveway, the skies opened up. Heavy rain and rolling thunder followed shortly after. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect.

A Well-Earned Rest

With 10 kilometers in our legs, my body definitely felt it. We ordered fried chicken and French fries through Vuba Vuba and spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing indoors while the storm passed outside.

It was one of those beautifully balanced days: community, exercise, friendship, meaningful goodbyes, good food, and perfect timing with the weather.

Car Free Day gave us more than just steps on a fitness tracker. It gave us a shared memory with friends before one chapter closes and another begins.

And next time? We’ll know that security checkpoints aren’t always part of the experience.