Vision

All About Me

Located in one of Kigali's oldest and most sought-after neighborhoods, we are developing Co-Kiyovu to be more than just a space—but a living testament to the power of Rwandan women in rebuilding their country, leading change, and shaping the future. The name "Co-Kiyovu" reflects our core purpose: Community, Collaboration, Co-working, Co-living, and Collective impact.

Current Status: We are currently in the early development phase of this ambitious project. We have secured the opportunity to purchase the property that has been a gathering space, creative hub, and launching pad for ideas and connections for the past ten years. Some components like Women GAIN programs, guest accommodations, and yoga spaces are already operational, while others are in the planning and development stages.

Our plans for this multifaceted hub include the following key components:

Women's Leadership & Innovation

• Women's Leadership Institute & Think Tank – Training the next generation of female leaders in digital skills, entrepreneurship, and career development through Women GAIN Rwanda

• Co-Working & Innovation Hub – A collaborative space where women entrepreneurs, activists, and innovators connect, create, and launch impactful ventures

• Storytelling & Knowledge Sharing – Interactive sessions where visitors engage directly with Rwandan women leading in business, politics, and social change

Culture, History & Rwanda's Women Pioneers

• Rwanda's First Women's History Museum – Honoring the women who played a vital role in Rwanda's recovery, peace-building, and progress

• Art Gallery & Cultural Exchange – Showcasing Rwandan women artists whose work tells powerful stories of resilience, creativity, and transformation

• Curated Tours & Experiences – Personalized journeys that bring Rwanda's story to life, connecting visitors with grassroots leaders, policymakers, and trailblazers

Co-Living & Sustainable Hospitality

• Eco-Friendly Retreats & Accommodations – Thoughtfully designed stays that immerse visitors in Rwanda's hospitality while promoting sustainability

• Coffee Shop/Restaurant & Culinary Program – A farm-to-table dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients and a training program that empowers women in the culinary arts

Wellness, Climate & Green Innovation

• Wellness & Community Gatherings – A place for yoga, meditation, and cultural events that foster connection, healing, and personal growth

• Sustainable Gardens & Urban Farming – A living example of Rwanda's leadership in climate action and environmental resilience

• Green Building & Eco-Conscious Design – Incorporating renewable energy, water conservation, and locally sourced materials

Our Implementation Approach

Co-Kiyovu is being developed as a hybrid of business and nonprofit initiatives:

• Co-Kiyovu is being established as a Rwandan community benefit corporation (social enterprise) to ensure long-term financial sustainability through revenue-generating activities

• Women GAIN Rwanda (our local NGO, already operational) will run the leadership and skills training programs

• Global GAIN (our US-based NGO) supports fundraising and international partnerships as well as serves as a shareholder of Co-Kiyovu

Timeline and Progress

We are currently in a critical phase with a four-month window to secure the funding needed to purchase the property and begin implementing our vision. Our implementation will follow a phased approach:

1. Property Acquisition Phase (4 months): Secure funding, complete legal documentation

2. Preparatory Phase (4 months): Complete designs, secure permits, develop operational plans

3. Investment Phase (12 months): Renovate existing buildings, construct new facilities, train staff

4. Operational Phase: Full operations of all components with ongoing monitoring and improvement

Join Our Journey

This vision is ambitious but achievable. We invite you to join us in creating this unique space where women-led innovation, sustainability, and cultural heritage intersect—a hub for local and international collaboration that honors Rwanda's extraordinary journey while building toward an even brighter future.

Follow our progress at Co-Kiyovu Substack as we document this journey and share the stories of the women shaping this vision.