
Rwanda is home to more than 100 islands spread across 40 lakes, holding a combined water volume of 225.1 billion cubic meters, which accounts for 99.96% of the country's total water reserves, with the remaining 0.04% stored in artificial lakes. By 2028, Rwanda plans to establish a National Island Park to fully harness this natural wealth.
Investors have recognized Rwanda's lakes as prime opportunities, with figures from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) indicating that, over the past five years, investments amounting to $106 million have been made to develop tourism around these lakes.
One such early investor is Donatien Murenzi, who saw the potential of Lake Muhazi and established the Muhazi Beach Resort, located approximately 50 kilometers east of Kigali, in the Eastern Province of Rwanda.
IGIHE visited this entrepreneur to highlight the ongoing investments made by Rwandans living in the country and in the Diaspora.
Muhazi is a lake covering an area of 33 square kilometers, with a length of 60 kilometers from its eastern to its western side, and a width of up to three kilometers.
The resort, which began operations in 2003, sits on a seven-hectare plot in Kabale, Rwamagana District, in Muhazi Sector, just four kilometers from the main Rwamagana-Kayonza-Kigali road. The resort features 63 rooms and is beautifully positioned along the shores of Lake Muhazi.
From a distance, Muhazi Beach Resort appears as though it's perched on an island due to its hillside location. It borders areas such as Murambi w'Inyambo, Gakoni, and Kavumu, with hills extending to the lake's edge.
In addition to its accommodation, the resort boasts conference facilities that can host up to 600 people. The lush garden, nestled near the lake, remains cool even in the summer.
The gardens are adorned with a variety of trees, which not only beautify the surroundings but also attract many bird species, adding to the serene atmosphere, especially at sunset.
The resort also features recreational facilities for children and boat tours on the lake.
With its fresh air, stunning landscape, and a peaceful environment far from the pollution of urban centers, Muhazi Beach Resort offers an ideal location for sports and relaxation. The resort also attracts photographers who appreciate the breathtaking views at sunset.
While today it is known as Muhazi Beach Resort, the area has historical significance as a place that once hosted prominent leaders. After its acquisition by Murenzi in 2003, it became part of his mission to contribute to Rwanda's post-genocide recovery.
The resort is an excellent destination for family vacations, weekend getaways, weddings, and other social events.
The resort offers three types of rooms: one for families of more than two people with two bedrooms, a living room, and essential amenities for $100 per night; another for couples at $50 per night; and a single-room option at $50. Special discounts of up to 30% are offered for Rwandans living abroad and senior citizens.
Another standout feature of Muhazi Beach Resort is its excellent cuisine. The resort grows its own vegetables and fruits, and guests can also request freshly caught fish prepared to order. The resort is equipped with large spaces for weddings and events, either along the lakeside or in spacious, purpose-built halls.
Muhazi Beach Resort is a popular stop for tourists heading to Akagera National Park, as well as travelers going to Tanzania and Uganda. The resort provides employment opportunities for graduates in hospitality and tourism, offering hands-on training and career development.
Murenzi has plans to further elevate the resort's status by working with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to increase its star rating, while also focusing on creating more opportunities for the youth in the hospitality sector.












































Karirima Aimable Ngarambe
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/exploring-rwanda-s-natural-beauty-at-muhazi-beach-resort