Why Chinese like living in Kigali

When you ask Chinese people here how they feel about living in Kigali, they invariably say they like it, for the following reasons (not necessarily in this order):

1.  Weather is nice (天气很好)

If one could describe the climate here, it would be: cool in the mornings and evenings, warm in the afternoons (notice that I didn't say "cold" or "hot"), and some rain. It's almost ideal. No air-conditioning or heating is needed for cars or houses.

In cooler weather, my head is clearer. I can remember details better, such as the location of landmarks, people's names, even the content of what I'm reading. In hot, humid weather my brain is fried and I can't be trusted not to step in front of an oncoming car. So in that sense, living in a cooler climate has probably saved my life.

(Note: That said, I don't think I have the courage to drive a car here in Kigali. With all the roundabouts and moto-taxis, it's easy to have a split-second lapse. Like a few weeks ago when I was a passenger in a car that got rear-ended. No major damage, fortunately.)

2.  No pollution (没有污染)

What, no choking, blanketing smog that lasts for days on end? Nope. Now, of course, there is a fair amount of dust that blows around, and breathing it in can occasionally bring some health issues, such as running sinuses or flu. But I think that can hardly be compared with what the Chinese experience back home.

Most days skies are sunny and blue, some days cloudy (but these are rain clouds).

As far as the soil is concerned, the fact is that produce is grown pesticide-free. All organic! However, processed foods can and do contain colorants, emulsifiers, etc., so you have to read labels.  

3.  Friendly people (人很友善)

Well, of course the people are friendly, because as your laborers and employees, they have to be nice to you! Seriously, though, Rwandans are very kind and hospitable, qualities that make it a pleasure to interact with them. 

One more reason for liking life here:

The Chinese agree, perhaps somewhat reluctantly, that the stricter stance on corruption is good for business. That's right. When there is less corruption, you can trust that things are built the way they should be, prices remain stable, and competition is fairer.

So, all in all, Kigali is a great place to live! There is even a website, livinginkigali.com, which is mostly used by ex-pats (but locals use it too) to exchange helpful information about living here.