Construction of Kigali Paramount Hotel, a hospitality training institution, is nearing completion. The facility’s opening is earmarked for the end of this year.

This hotel established by Mount Kigali University will enhance the institution’s contribution towards the growth of Kicukiro District.

During his visit to the country in June this year, the university’s Founder and Chairman, Prof. Simon Gicharu, explained the hotel’s significance to Kicukiro, Kigali City, and Rwanda in general.

"We project construction to be completed before the end of this year,” said Prof. Gicharu, adding: "Kigali Paramount Hotel will play a big part in the hands-on training of our students.”

Prof. Gicharu added that the facility will also be a major employer in the hospitality industry, contributing significantly to Kicukiro District and the country’s overall growth.

Kigali Paramount Hotel is the first such facility in the country established to support hospitality training at a local university.

Prof. Gicharu said the university looks forward to training Rwandan students as well as others from the rest of the world.

The hotel adds to the growing number of institutions located in the vibrant Kicukiro District.

The district stands out not only for its economic dynamism and cultural richness but also for its big role in national development.

Home to a diverse array of institutions and industries, Kicukiro is a thriving hub of activity. It is home to organisations such as the Rwanda Bureau of Standards, Ministry of Health, Nursing Council of Rwanda, banks, supermarkets, hotels, Newlife Ministries, NGOs, entertainment spots such as Canal Olympia Rebero, and a robust industrial base that includes manufacturing of construction materials, household goods, plastics, and a vehicle assembly plant.

Kicukiro District’s growth is supported by key infrastructure such as the Dubai Port in Masaka, major hospitals, the Silverback Mall, and sports facilities such as the cricket playground. It is also served by the renovated Bugesera Highway that connects it to the new airport. The highway is quickly attracting high-rise buildings that host businesses and offices. Kicukiro is also famous for trading centres like Kismenti, Sonatube, and Kicukiro Centre de centre.

Mount Kigali University Vice-Chancellor Dr Martin Kimemia says the institution is actively contributing to Kicukiro District’s growth through strategic initiatives and impactful projects.

"Our university is committed to excellence in education and community development,” said Dr Kimemia.

In February this year, Mount Kigali University opened a medical centre, thus demonstrating its commitment to practical education and skills development.

"We are very grateful for the support we receive from the government and our stakeholders,” said Dr Kimemia.

He added that the university's reputation for delivering excellence, coupled with state-of-the-art facilities, has attracted students from across the globe."

Kicukiro District Executive Administrator Antoine Mutsinzi applauded the university during the opening ceremony.

"The centre aligns with the government’s overall vision for the development of the health sector to ensure universal accessibility to equitable and affordable health services,” he said.

He added: "I commend the university for the investment and training health professionals who will take care of people and nurse them to full health.”

The centre now accepts Britam, Radiant, and Eden medical insurance cards. It is negotiating with other insurance organisations for partnerships.

UMC Chairman Dr John Nyiligira, invites residents of Kicukiro and other parts of the country to visit the centre for treatment and medical check-ups.

On media training, Mount Kigali University collaborates closely with Royal FM, which is an integral part of the learning institution’s ecosystem. This collaboration provides invaluable training opportunities for media students. This partnership underscores the university’s holistic approach to education, preparing students not only academically but also professionally.

Dr Kimemia asserts that, as Mount Kigali University continues to expand its footprint in Kicukiro District and beyond, it remains committed to delivering on its mission. The university provides transformational training, research, and innovation and undertakes community service, all for socio-economic development.

The university’s latest investments, the medical centre, and the hotel are expected to play a big role in this. Through these efforts, Mount Kigali University is not only shaping the future of its students but also contributing significantly to the ongoing success story of Kicukiro District and Rwanda as a whole.