Maria winced as she climbed the stairs to her Gishushu apartment.

Another morning, another reminder that her knees weren't what they used to be.

At 42, she'd accepted the dull ache as part of life; something that came with age, stress, and Kigali's hilly roads.

Her neighbor, Grace, noticed. "Still hurting?"

Maria nodded, too tired to complain again.

Grace disappeared into her kitchen and returned with a small glass jar filled with golden-orange powder.

"Try this for two weeks. One teaspoon in warm milk every morning. Add a pinch of black pepper and honey."

"What is it?"

"Turmeric. But not the old stuff from the supermarket. This is from a farm in Musanze. I get it from Hi-Pima."

Grace pressed the jar into Maria's hands. "Just try it."

Maria was skeptical.

She'd tried everything; painkillers, stretching, rest  and more.

Why would a spice make any difference?

Three weeks later, Maria bought her own jar.

Because the pain had reduced, her energy had returned and she was able to climb those stairs without thinking about her knees for the first time in months.

Why Rwandan Turmeric Is Different: The Volcanic Advantage.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) grows in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, but not all turmeric is created equal.

The difference lies in the soil.

Rwanda sits along the Albertine Rift, surrounded by volcanic mountains that have spent thousands of years enriching the earth with minerals.

When volcanic rock breaks down, it releases:

• Potassium for strong plant growth
• Phosphorus for root development
• Magnesium for chlorophyll production
• Calcium for cell wall strength
• Iron, zinc, and trace minerals that concentrate in the turmeric rhizome

Independent lab tests show that turmeric grown in Rwanda's volcanic highlands contains 15-25% higher curcumin content than turmeric grown in conventional soils.

Curcumin is the compound that gives turmeric its health benefits and Rwandan soil produces more of it naturally.

Fresh vs. Stale: The Shocking Truth About Supermarket Turmeric.

Here's what most people don't know about the turmeric sitting on supermarket shelves:

Most imported turmeric is 12-18 months old by the time you buy it.

It was harvested, shipped for weeks, stored in warehouses, distributed to retailers, and sat under fluorescent lights losing potency.

Oxidation: Curcumin degrades when exposed to light, heat, and air.

Every day that turmeric sits in clear plastic containers under store lights, it loses effectiveness.

Freshness indicators:

• Fresh turmeric: Vibrant yellow-orange, strong earthy aroma, slightly sticky when rubbed between fingers
• Stale turmeric: Dull brown-orange, weak smell, dusty and dry

Hi-Pima's turmeric powder moves from farm to boutique in 3-7 days.

It's ground in small batches, stored in dark conditions, and packaged in light-protective containers.

This is the difference between medicine and dust.

The Science Behind the Health Benefits of Turmeric.

Curcumin: The Compound That Does Everything.

Turmeric contains over 100 chemical compounds, but curcumin is the star.

This bright yellow compound has been studied in over 3,000 scientific publications for its effects on:

• Inflammation
• Oxidative stress
• Brain function
• Heart health
• Digestive disorders
• Skin conditions
• Joint pain
• Mood regulation

But the thing is, curcumin is poorly absorbed by the body.

That's why how you consume turmeric matters as much as the quality you buy.

How Turmeric Helps Fight Some Diseases (Study Backed).

Chronic inflammation is the root cause of almost every modern health condition:

• Arthritis and joint pain
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Autoimmune conditions
• Digestive disorders
• Depression and anxiety
• Alzheimer's disease

Unlike pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory drugs that work on a single pathway, curcumin works on multiple inflammatory pathways simultaneously.

1. Brain Health (Alzheimer's).

Curcumin crosses the blood-brain barrier: a rare ability for natural compounds.

Once there, it:

1. Increases BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor): This protein helps grow new brain cells and strengthens existing neural connections. Low BDNF is linked to depression and Alzheimer's disease.
2. Reduces brain inflammation: Inflammation in the brain contributes to cognitive decline. Curcumin's anti-inflammatory effects protect brain tissue.
3. Clears amyloid plaques: The protein tangles associated with Alzheimer's may be reduced by curcumin's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to amyloid beta.

This is why turmeric is a staple in Indian cuisine and why India has some of the lowest Alzheimer's rates in the world.

2. Digestive Health.

Traditional Rwandan and East African medicine has used turmeric for digestive issues for generations.

Science now confirms why:

1. It stimulates bile production: Bile breaks down fats. More bile means better fat digestion and less bloating.
2. Reduces gut inflammation: Inflammatory bowel conditions like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis show improvement with curcumin supplementation.
3. Supports healthy gut bacteria: Curcumin has prebiotic effects, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your intestines.
4. Protects the gut lining: Curcumin strengthens the intestinal barrier, reducing "leaky gut" syndrome.

That morning turmeric drink is actively supporting your entire digestive system.

3. Joint Health.

If you play football on weekends, or simply deal with age-related joint wear, turmeric offers real relief.

1. Reduces joint inflammation: Studies on osteoarthritis patients show curcumin reduces pain and improves mobility as effectively as some NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
2. Supports cartilage health: Curcumin may slow cartilage breakdown while supporting repair processes.
3. Speeds recovery: Athletes using turmeric report faster recovery from intense training and reduced muscle soreness.

Maria wasn't imagining the improvement in her knees, the science backs up what she felt.

The Turmeric (Curcumin) Absorption Problem (And How to Solve It).

Curcumin is poorly absorbed by the human body.

You can consume turmeric all day and absorb very little of the beneficial compounds.

Why?

• It's not water-soluble (doesn't dissolve in your digestive juices)
• It's rapidly metabolized and eliminated
• It doesn't easily cross the intestinal wall

This is why some people try turmeric and claim "it doesn't work."

They're consuming it wrong!

1. The Black Pepper Solution: 2000% Better Absorption.
   

Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that inhibits the enzymes that break down curcumin in your gut and liver.

Adding just a pinch of black pepper to turmeric increases curcumin absorption by up to 2000%.

This is the difference between turmeric working or not working at all.

📌 Always combine turmeric with black pepper. Always.

1. The Fat Factor: Why You Need Oil

Curcumin is fat-soluble, meaning it dissolves in fat, not water.

Consuming turmeric with healthy fats dramatically improves absorption.

Best fats to pair with turmeric:

• Coconut oil or coconut milk
• Olive oil
• Avocado or avocado oil
• Nuts and seeds
• Full-fat dairy or plant milk

This is why traditional golden milk recipes use full-fat milk or coconut milk; not water.

1. Heat Activation: Why Cooking Helps

Gentle heating of turmeric makes curcumin more bioavailable by:

• Breaking down the plant's cell walls
• Releasing more curcumin into the surrounding liquid
• Making the compound more soluble

This is why adding turmeric to soups, stews, and warm drinks is so effective.

You're not just adding flavor, you're activating the medicine.

Storage: Keeping Your Turmeric Fresh and Potent.

The Three Enemies of Turmeric:

1. Light: UV rays break down curcumin rapidly. That's why Hi-Pima packages turmeric in opaque containers, not clear plastic.

2. Heat: High temperatures accelerate degradation. Store turmeric in a cool place, never above the stove.

3. Air/Moisture: Oxygen oxidizes curcumin. Moisture causes clumping and mold. Always keep containers sealed tight.

Proper Turmeric Storage Technique.

Best practices:

• Transfer to airtight glass container immediately after purchase
• Store in a cool, dark cupboard or drawer
• Keep away from the stove, oven, or sunny windowsills
• Don't use wet spoons
• Seal container immediately after each use

Shelf life:

• Peak potency: 0-6 months
• Good quality: 6-12 months
• Declining quality: 12-24 months

Turmeric freshness test: Open your jar and smell. Fresh turmeric has a strong, earthy, slightly peppery aroma.

If it smells weak or like nothing, it's lost potency. Time to refill at Hi-Pima.

Dosage: How Much Turmeric Should You Use?

For General Health and Prevention.

Daily recommended: 1-3 teaspoons of turmeric powder (providing approximately 500-2000mg of curcumin).

Practical application:

• 1 tsp in cooking throughout the day
• 1 tsp in evening tea or soup

This provides consistent anti-inflammatory support without overdoing it.

For Specific Conditions

Joint pain/arthritis: 2-3 tsp daily, split between meals
Digestive support: 1-2 tsp daily with meals
Skin conditions: 1-2 tsp internally + topical application
General wellness: 1 tsp daily

📌 Start small (1/4 tsp daily) and increase gradually. Your digestive system needs time to adapt.

Can You Have Too Much?

Turmeric from food sources is very safe, but excessive amounts (5+ teaspoons daily for extended periods) may cause:

• Digestive upset
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Increased risk of kidney stones (in susceptible individuals)

The sweet spot is: 1-3 teaspoons daily is safe, effective, and sustainable long-term.

Special Considerations.

Pregnant/breastfeeding: Culinary amounts are safe. Avoid therapeutic doses without consulting your healthcare provider.

Before surgery: Stop turmeric 2 weeks before surgery (it can thin blood slightly).

On blood thinners: Consult your doctor (turmeric has mild blood-thinning effects).

Gallbladder issues: Turmeric stimulates bile production. Avoid it if you have gallstones.

For most people, adding organic turmeric to daily cooking is completely safe and beneficial.

Why Organic Turmeric Matters: The Hidden Cost of Imported Turmeric.

The Pesticide Problem

Conventional turmeric farming uses pesticides to control pests and fungal diseases.

These chemicals:

• Remain as residues on the final product
• Accumulate in your body over time
• Disrupt hormone function
• May contribute to long-term health issues

You're consuming turmeric for health benefits while simultaneously ingesting toxins that undermine those same benefits.

The Soil Degradation Cycle.

Chemical fertilizers provide quick growth but:

• Deplete soil of minerals over time
• Kill beneficial soil organisms
• Reduce the plant's ability to absorb trace minerals
• Result in turmeric with lower curcumin content

Hi-Pima's organic turmeric comes from soil that's getting richer each year.

That means higher mineral content and more potent curcumin.

Where to Buy Fresh Organic Turmeric in Kigali.

Location.

Hi-Pima Zero-Waste Boutique
23 KG 599 Street, Gishushu Area, Kigali, Rwanda

Contact:
📞 +250 781 468 884
📧 info@hipima.rw
🌐 www.hipima.rw

FAQs: Your Turmeric Questions Answered.

Q: How is this different from turmeric at the supermarket?

(1) Freshness: Hi-Pima's turmeric is 3-7 days from farm vs. 12-18 months for imports.

(2) No pesticide residues.

(3) Volcanic soil: higher curcumin content from mineral-rich growing conditions.

Q: Will turmeric stain my teeth yellow?

A: Temporary surface staining can occur, similar to coffee or tea. But it washes away with normal brushing.

To prevent  this however,, drink through a straw or rinse your mouth with water afterward.

Q: Can I give turmeric to my children?

A: Yes, in culinary amounts.

Adding turmeric to food is safe for children, supports their immune systems and provides anti-inflammatory benefits.

Start with small amounts (1/4 tsp) in foods they already enjoy.

Q: I tried turmeric before and felt nothing. Why?

A: Most likely an absorption issue.

Were you consuming it with black pepper and fat? Were you using fresh, high-quality turmeric?

Try Hi-Pima's organic turmeric for two weeks. The difference will be obvious.

Q: Does cooking destroy turmeric's benefits?

A: Gentle heating actually improves bioavailability.

Avoid high heat for extended periods (frying for 30+ minutes), but normal cooking is fine.

Adding turmeric to soups, stews, and rice preserves and enhances its benefits.

Q: How do I know if my turmeric is still fresh?

A: Smell test. Fresh turmeric has a strong, earthy, slightly peppery aroma.

Weak smell = degraded curcumin.

Also check color: vibrant yellow-orange is fresh, dull brown means it's old.

Q: Can I take turmeric if I'm on medication?

A: Turmeric can interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, and medications that reduce stomach acid.

Culinary amounts are generally safe, but consult your healthcare provider if you're on medication and plan to use therapeutic doses.

Q: What's better; fresh turmeric root or powder?

A: Both have benefits. Fresh root is less processed but harder to find and store

Quality organic powder (like Hi-Pima's) is more convenient. It has a longer shelf life, and when it’s fresh, it maintains full potency.

For daily use, powder wins.

Join the Community

Follow Hi-Pima for:

• Organic spices recipes and tips
• Health and wellness content

Instagram: @hi.pima
LinkedIn: Hi-Pima Boutique Hotel

📱 Phone/WhatsApp: +250 781 468 884

🌐 Website: www.hipima.rw

📍 Address: 23 KG 599 Street, Gishushu Area, Kigali

Our guests came curious. Some were nervous, and most convinced they couldn't paint. But after last Saturday…

The Edition 2 of Dine, Sip & Paint had one aim:

To bring people together and network in a tension-free environment.

And what better way than to combine cocktails, fine dining and a bonding activity?

After our art guide put our guests through, their brushes started moving.

And even they were amazed at what they created.

And when Chef Olivier's dishes arrived, it provided a lovely, intimate setting that our guests craved.

And our aim with this event came to fruition: strangers becoming friends over shared masterpieces.

By the end of the night, every single person left with art they're proud of and memories they'll talk about for weeks.

Edition 2 was everything. Thank you for showing up and making it unforgettable.

Edition 3 is coming.

Follow us so you don't miss it!

#HiPimaNights #DineSipAndPaint #KigaliHotel #KigaliEvents #HiPimaEvents  #CreativeExperiences #FineDiningKigali #ArtAndCuisine #KigaliLifestyle #KigaliProfessionals  #DateNightKigali #EcoTourismRwanda #VisitRwanda #NetworkingDoneRight #DineSipPaint #ProfessionalDevelopment #TeamBuilding #KigaliLife #PaintAndDine #Rwandanfood #RwandaCulture #Kigali #Rwanda #Wazoplus

Picture this: You're sitting at a table in Hi-Pima, a paintbrush in one hand, a glass of something delicious in the other.

In front of you, a canvas is slowly transforming into something you never thought you could create.

The smell of Chef Olivier's pumpkin velouté swimming under your nose from the kitchen.

Your friend next to you is laughing because they "definitely didn't mean to paint the sky purple," but honestly? It looks amazing.

This is Dine, Sip & Paint.

And it's about to become your new favorite thing to do in Kigali.

So What's Actually On The Menu?

Think about it; when someone says "paint night," you might picture crackers, cheap wine, and an intimidating blank canvas staring you down.

Well, we switched it up.

Instead, we asked ourselves: What if you could enjoy a meal while creating art in the most relaxed, judgment-free zone imaginable?

So, we called Chef Olivier Letche and he said yes!

What Kind of Food Will Be Served?

Chef Olivier prepared a 3 course meal.

Starting with a pumpkin velouté with creamy coconut milk, delicate leek espuma, and spiced sorghum.

• It's the kind of soup that makes you close your eyes for a second and forget where you are.

Then comes the main course: tender goat confit in Musanze coffee. Yes, coffee.

• It creates this deep, rich flavor you didn't know you needed.
• Paired with green pepper sauce and vanilla sweet potato purée.

You then finish with Congolese chocolate fondant meets tree tomato espuma, and caramelized peanut shards.

• It's the kind of dessert that makes you want to lick the plate. And honestly, we won't judge.

Between courses, you're painting, sipping, and laughing.

"But I Can't Paint!"

Yeah, we've heard that before. About 17 times per event, actually.

But, remember, you're not training for an art gallery opening.

You're spending an evening doing something fun that doesn't involve staring at your phone for 3 hours.

We have instructors available to walk you through every single step.

And by the end of the night, you'll have created something you're genuinely proud to hang on your wall.

Who Actually Shows Up At These Hi-Pima Dine, Sip & Paint Events?

1. Sarah came alone last month, nervous that she wouldn't know anyone.

But, she left with three new friends and plans for brunch.

2. The entire marketing team from a tech company came for team building.

And after, their boss said it was the first time they'd seen everyone genuinely relaxed and collaborative outside the office.

3. The group of five friends who "just wanted to try something different on a Thursday" now come to every single Dine, Sip and Paint event.

So, to answer your question, there's no "type" of person who comes to Dine, Sip & Paint.

Just people who want their evening to be more interesting than Netflix and chill.

Look, you could spend another Saturday scrolling through Instagram looking at other people having fun.

Or you could be the person having fun.

Call us: +250 793 899 835

Investment: 25K solo | 45K couple (includes a 3-course meal, all supplies & instruction).

Book your seat here: +250 793 899 835

Or here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfChr6ZXvldLmTzVvGqj_oAJihj4nSYvOAbnsMhvukV8OcvYQ/viewform?usp=header

⚠️ Limited seats available

📍November 8 | 6-9 PM | Hi-Pima Boutique Hotel

Life's too short for boring evenings.

Dine, Sip & Paint is the story you'll tell at work on Monday, and photos you'll actually want to post.

This night will remind you that Kigali has so much more to offer than you realized.

So, see you on Saturday?

Follow the fun: @Hi.Pima | @StitchYourSample

Share your masterpiece with these hashtags: #DineSipPaintKigali #HiPimaEvents

What if discarded materials could transform into beautiful, functional products?

That's not a hypothetical. Because at Hi-Pima, it's our reality.

Swipe to see three products that tell our Zero Waste story →

Slide 1: Recycled Bags

Made from recycled materials like PET plastic, cotton, paper, and jute.

These eco-friendly, durable, and washable bags were once destined for landfills.

But now, they're carried by consumers across Kigali.

Our partner artisans take what hotels typically discard and transform them into products.

Slide 2: Icyangwe Cups.

These traditional cups blend centuries-old craftsmanship with modern functionality.

Perfect for holding pens, toothbrushes, or small household items.

Every Icyangwe cup supports local artisans preserving traditional Rwandan techniques while adapting them for modern life.

Slide 3: Correctbook Agenda.

Write, erase, repeat.

It's a planner designed for people who refuse to choose between productivity and environmental responsibility.

This is the Hi-Pima Zero Waste Shop difference.

We don't just talk about sustainability, we create a circular economy where:

• Hotel waste becomes artisan income.
• Traditional craftsmanship meets modern innovation.
• Every purchase supports local SMEs.
• Consumers find products that align with their values.

The impact goes beyond the products:

 ✅ Waste diverted from landfills.
✅ Income generated for Rwandan artisans.
✅ Traditional craftsmanship preserved.
✅ Eco-friendly alternatives made accessible.
✅ Community empowered through economic opportunity.

When you visit Hi-Pima's Zero Waste Shop, you're investing in a vision where nothing goes to waste, and everyone benefits.

Visit our Zero Waste Shop:
📍 Hi-Pima Boutique Hotel, Kigali
📞 +250 793 899 835
🌐 www.hipima.rw

#HiPimaZeroWaste #CircularEconomyRW #SustainableKigali #ZeroWasteShop #EcoFriendlyProducts #MadeInRwanda #SupportLocalArtisans #SustainableLiving #GreenBusinessRwanda #ConsciousConsumption #RwandanCraftsmanship #EcoTourismRwanda #SustainableHospitality #Kigali #Rwanda #Wazoplus

After the incredible success of our Night of Cultural Heritage, we're excited to invite you to our next signature event: an evening of art and fine dining.

Dine, Sip & Paint is an experience designed for those who appreciate creativity and meaningful connections.

This event is perfect for:

• Date nights.
• Friend groups.
• Painting professionals wanting to unwind.
• Corporate teams interested in unique team-building activities.

❗ Here's what awaits you on November 8th:

1. Guided Painting Experience:

✅ No prior art experience needed.

✅ Our instructors guide you step-by-step as you create your own canvas masterpiece.

✅ All painting materials are provided—you just bring your creativity.

2. 3-Course Gourmet Meal:

✅ Chef Olivier crafts a culinary journey featuring locally-sourced ingredients prepared with European and Japanese influences.

✅ Each course is designed to inspire and delight.

3. Cocktails & Mocktails:

✅ Beverages created to complement your dining and painting experience throughout the evening.

4. Take Your Art Home:

✅ Take home the canvas art you created, a tangible reminder of an unforgettable evening.

Event Details:
Date: November 8, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Hi-Pima Boutique Hotel, Kigali

Pricing:
💰 25,000 RWF per person
💰 45,000 RWF per couple (Limited seats available)

👉 Book your spot now: +250 783 527 833

So, if you're celebrating, looking to connect, or seeking a peaceful evening, November 8th is your date.

In partnership with Stitch Your Sample.

Will you be painting solo or bringing someone special? Let us know in the comments. 👇

#HiPimaNights #DineSipAndPaint #KigaliHotel #KigaliEvents #CreativeExperiences #FineDiningKigali #ArtAndCuisine #KigaliLifestyle #DateNightKigali #EcoTourismRwanda #November2025 #VisitRwanda #PaintAndDine #Rwandanfood #RwandaCulture #Kigali #Rwanda #Wazoplus

What if an evening could transport you through centuries to revisit the stories that built Rwanda.

Hi-Pima, in partnership with Imuze Funtime Tours, is back with our Night of Cultural Heritage.

On October 24th, Hi-Pima invites you to a night that guides you on a journey through tradition, fine dining, and timeless stories.

What you get experience:

• Heritage Dance & Live Inanga.
• Group Drumming & Cultural Theatre.
• A 5-course vegan dining experience.
• Re-enactment of Rwanda’s royal games and customs: Igisoro, Kunyobanwa, and Gusimbuka Urukiramende.

📍 Venue: Hi-Pima Boutique Hotel
📅 Date: 24th October 2025 | 🕠 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Reserve your spot now: www.hipima.rw

Entry fee: 50,000 Rwf | Momo Code: 993898

This evening is designed for cultural enthusiasts, tourists or just Rwandans who want t o experience a different type of entertainment.

👉 Reserve your spot now: www.hipima.rw

Follow us on Instagram for updates.

#HiPimaNights #CulturalHeritageRW #RwandaCulture #VeganDining #VisitRwanda #RwandanTourism #KigaliEvents #KigaliHiddenGems #CulturalHeritage #RwandanCulture #HiPimaHotel #KigaliExperience #KigaliHotel #Wazoplus #VeganRwanda

Are you looking for something fun and cultural to do in Kigali?

Don’t miss The Night of Cultural Heritage: a vibrant showcase of traditional Rwandan dance, drumming, storytelling, and soulful performance happening on June 28th, 2025, at Hi-Pima Hotel in Gishushu.

Here are 4 unforgettable moments waiting for you:

1. Sindumurishyo Drumming Rwanda.
Feel the pulse of ancient traditions through rhythms from Nkombo, Ingarama, and Igishakamba.

This interactive session brings the crowd together in an unforgettable wave of energy and unity.

2. Ubuntu Dance Performance.
A blend of poetry, music, and contemporary movement rooted in African heritage.

Themes of belonging and connection unfold beautifully on stage.

3. Intore Dance
Watch powerful warrior dances like Ikinimba and Umutahano come alive.

A bold, theatrical tribute to strength and community storytelling.

4. Live Inanga Music Rwanda
Let the soothing strings of the Inanga take you into Rwanda’s royal history through songs and ancestral stories.

This isn’t just another event in the list of things to do in Kigali, it’s a night to reconnect with Rwanda, its art, and each other.

Join us at Hi-Pima, 6PM–8PM | MoMo: 993898

Reserve your seat here: https://lu.ma/vz1l7xil

📍@HiPimaHotel | www.hipima.rw

#HiPimaHotelEvents #KigaliEvents2025 #RwandanEvents #EventsinKigali #HiPimaEvents #NightOfCulturalHeritage #KigaliEvents

Before we wrote books, our people passed stories through rhythm, movement, and song.

Traditional Rwandan dances like the Intore are one of the oldest ways Rwandans have shared joy, honored warriors, and celebrated life.

These dances are still with us today not as performances for tourists, but as part of who we are.

Each style carries a story about land, people, and the values we continue to live by.

Three Dances, Three Stories.

1. Ikinimba:

This dance comes from the Byumba region in Northern Rwanda.

It’s full of joy and movement and is usually performed during harvest or happy times.

You’ll notice the strong steps, fast rhythm, and proud energy. It's about celebration.

2. Ikinyemera:

This one is soft, graceful, and slow. It’s inspired by cows, which are deeply respected in Rwandan culture.

You’ll see the dancers move with care and pride. It’s a dance for moments of thanks, and it often brings calm to those watching.

3. Umutahano:

This is the warrior’s dance. Only Intore dancers perform it.

Every move has meaning from battle chants to steps that show courage and strength.

It's a dance that remembers our history of bravery and honor.

A Cultural Evening You Shouldn’t Miss.

You don’t have to travel across the country to experience this.

All three dances will be performed live at “The Night of Cultural Heritage” on June 28, 2025, from 6PM to 8PM in Kigali.

There’ll also be a chance to ask questions and learn more about what each movement means.

This is more than an event, it's a moment to reconnect with Rwanda’s roots and celebrate what makes our culture timeless.

📍 Learn more at hipima.rw
📸 Follow on Instagram: @hi.pima

Ever walked into a store labeled “eco-friendly” only to find overpriced products wrapped in plastic?

Yeah, we’ve been there too.

Living sustainably and eco - conscious in Kigali shouldn't feel impossible.

And yet, so many people still struggle and ask questions like:

• “Are there affordable, local eco-products that actually work?”
• “Do I really have to choose between beautiful art and sustainable art?”

No you don’t.

We built Hi-Pima because a zero-waste shop could feel more like a community space than a store.

A place where eco-friendly shopping felt like a connection and not an overwhelming chore.

What “Zero-Waste” Means to Us.

For us, the zero-waste lifestyle in Rwanda is not about perfection, it’s about intentional choices.

That means:

• Saying “no” to single-use plastic
• Minimizing packaging waste by designing systems that prioritize refill, reuse, and compost.

In Rwanda, where waste infrastructure is still evolving and urban consumption is on the rise, this mindset is crucial.

That’s why everything at Hi-Pima supports the circular economy in Kigali—from the way we package products to how you interact with them in your daily life.

What Makes Hi-Pima’s Zero-Waste Shop Different.

We didn’t just want a shop. We wanted a solution that works for real people living real lives in Kigali.

Here’s how we do things differently:

A. Reuse as a System, Not a Trend.

You’ve probably seen those beautiful bottles of bath oils, soy candles, and infused body sprays.

What you might not realize is that many of them started life as reused liquor or wine bottles, collected from around Kigali.

Here’s how it works:

• We collect used glass bottles from local bars and homes.
• We professionally clean and prepare the bottles for reuse.
• Then, we give them to local artists who turn them into new products.

It’s a reuse program by Hi-Pima which helps reduce waste, support local entrepreneurship, and give new life to what would otherwise be landfill-bound.

B. Locally Made, Chemical-Free Wellness Products.

You told us you were tired of imported chemical-heavy products that aren’t made for African skin, hair, or climate. And we listened.

• Our body care and wellness products are chemical-free, locally-made, and ingredient-transparent.
• Think: handmade soaps, herbal powders, and natural oils.

They’re safe, honest, and designed for everyday Rwandan life.

C. Looking Good and Living Green.

Who says going green can’t look good too?

That’s why we’re intentional about aesthetics as much as ethics.

You’ll find:

• Recycled milk-box journals
• Stylish pineapple-leaf leather shoes
• And other Rwandan-made gifts that are as stylish as they are conscious.

Everything is curated to reflect both the functionality and the artistry of the Rwandan culture.

At Hi-Pima, every purchase is a vote for a greener, more ethical Kigali.

Whether you’re starting your green lifestyle journey or deep into a plastic-free lifestyle, Hi-Pima offers a space that reflects your values.

Ready to see what sustainable shopping can look like in Rwanda? Step inside Hi-Pima.

Follow us on Instagram, and share your favorite zero-waste finds with #HiPimaLiving.
Let’s build a more sustainable Kigali, together.

#HiPimaKigali #HiPimaLiving #VisitHiPima #EcoFriendlyKigali #VisitKigali

When traveling through Rwanda, most guides will tell you where to spot gorillas or catch the best sunset views.

But what about travelers who want to eat consciously, explore local flavors, and support businesses that care for both people and the planet?

Enter Hi-Pima, Kigali’s hidden gem, a vegan restaurant, zero-waste boutique, and wellness hub that’s redefining plant-based dining in East Africa.

A Taste of Rwanda, Made Vegan.

Hi-Pima isn’t just vegan, it’s rooted in Rwandan culture. The menu is 85% vegan and 15% traditional, intentionally designed to be inclusive.

Whether you're plant-based, flexitarian, or simply curious, there's something that will surprise your taste buds.

Their dishes fuse wellness and creativity with local flavor.

Think: steak vegan seasoned with locally pressed pumpkin seed oil, vegan carrot soup, and hodgepodge salad, each one plated like art and bursting with intention.

All ingredients are sourced locally, and our in-house team of chefs ensures every bite is nourishing and exciting.

For travelers who want to connect with culture through food, Hi-Pima offers a genuine and delicious entry point.

Beyond the Plate: A Wellness Journey.

Hi-Pima is more than a restaurant. It’s a wellness experience.

Here, food is designed to heal and restore.

Travelers with specific dietary needs or wellness goals can book one-on-one consultations with a nutritionist and receive customized meal plans.

Whether you're recovering from jet lag, adjusting to altitude, or maintaining a clean-eating lifestyle, Hi-Pima helps you align your meals with your wellbeing.

A Space for Sustainability and Soul.

What sets Hi-Pima apart is its uncompromising commitment to sustainability.

They’ve eliminated single-use plastics, repurposed packaging, and collaborated with nearby farmers to grow ingredients like passion fruit; used in their desserts and jams.

From the natural decor to the slow food philosophy, every detail at Hi-Pima supports a gentler, more intentional way of living.

The space also hosts community events like Paint & Fine Dine, traditional dance performances, and eco-themed dinners, blending culture, creativity, and connection.

In a world where convenience often wins over care, Hi-Pima reminds us that food can be both purposeful and pleasurable.

So if you’re in Kigali and searching for a meal that fills your belly, lifts your spirit, and leaves the planet a little better, Hi-Pima is your next stop.

Walk in, book a table, or message us to plan your visit.

Here, every bite supports something bigger!