Kigali - First Day of 2026 Sees Quiet Streets and Limited Activities

Kigali, January 1, 2026 The first day of 2026 in Kigali was marked by unusually low activity and sparse crowds, as many residents chose to spend the day quietly following New Year celebrations. Unlike the chaotic closing and opening nights of the previous year, streets and commercial areas were largely empty, with few people and vehicles moving around the city. In neighborhoods such as Nyamirambo and the city center, residents explained that the first day of the year is often dedicated to visiting family and friends, or resting after late-night festivities. Church attendance was modest, as many had already spent the night in prayer and returned home in the morning. Eric Twizerimana, who spent New Year’s Eve in church, said he planned to spend the day socializing with friends and family while keeping his faith central: “Everyone celebrates holidays in general. I started the last year in church and will start this year in the same spirit. This new year, I have many resolutions, but the Lord will enable us.” Business owners also noted the quiet day. Jean Pierre Maniraghuha, a household appliance seller in Nyamirambo, said customers were slowly returning, but he went to work regardless: “We started the year in church at night, but our daily lives are sustained by work. Even one customer is worth attending to, and this year I am planning to innovate and expand my business.” Typically busy areas, such as Downtown Station, were almost empty, with many shops remaining closed. Some churches, particularly Catholic parishes, held services to start the new year, with families participating in baptisms and masses that emphasized love, faith, and community. Evening gatherings also brought some activity, as certain churches combined worship with entertainment, attracting small crowds, but overall the first day of 2026 in Kigali was calm, reflecting a mix of religious devotion, family visits, and rest after the New Year celebrations.