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Rwanda, November 21, 2008

Kigali Bottle Cap Golf

The game of Rwandan cool kids

bottle golf
Sam sets up for a shot
After a long day getting the tools of ICT into the hands of those that need them in Rwanda, its time to unwind with a classic local game: Bottle Cap Golf.

Invented by Solar Sam, this game requires more skill and concentration than any simple 18-hole golf course. In fact, its rivals Moto Polo in complexity and difficulty, and is best played under very strict conditions.

First, be on Solar Sam's front porch, and with the company of great friends. Then add an evening of beers to make the mood right and supply the key game piece - the bottle cap. Then place them on Sam's porch, pick up the play stick, and try to do what Sam does in this video:

Yes, note that the game looks easier than it is, and the goal, the road out past the lawn and its wall, is father than you think. Play at your own risk. I tried myself, to great failure. Not that I'm any good at golf, but still.

Don't underestimate the fun of Kigali Bottle Cap Golf.

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Rwanda, November 20, 2008

Rwanda is Not East Africa


The face of success
Many people have put forth the proposition that Rwanda is in East Africa. From high level agreements like COMESA down to the perceptions of East Africans, there is the feeling that Rwanda should be seen in the same light as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. I am here in Kigali to tell you they are all wrong.

Rwanda is not East Africa. And here are several reasons why...

Continue reading "Rwanda is Not East Africa"

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Rwanda, November 19, 2008

How Many Hills in Kigali, Rwanda?


Start counting now
This is the question I have while sitting in the capitol of Rwanda, the "land of a thousand hills": how many hills are there in Kigali itself? To answer this question, I'm looking to Johnny and Patrick, two Kigali businessmen who should know exactly how many hills are in Kigali - and be able to name them all too.

If you, like I wonder if they have the answer, watch and learn:

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Rwanda, November 18, 2008

Business is Booming in Kigali


The face of success
While there may be a recession in the developed world, you would not know it standing in downtown Kigali, Rwanda. All I can hear is the sound of business.

Now don't get all crazy and sell everything to move to Africa. This specific economy is very donor dependent - around half the economy is donor funded, greatly warping the business climate. Still, there is opportunity...

Continue reading "Business is Booming in Kigali"

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