As the founder of the Culinary Innovation Village and owner of Meza Malonga, a renowned culinary lab in Kigali, Malonga has spent years redefining Afro-fusion cuisine. Now, he is taking a bold step forward, moving his entire company to Musanze to build a culinary innovation hub that blends tradition with modern gastronomy.

“Musanze has everything—nature, culture, and an ecosystem that inspires innovation. This is where I want to create, grow, and contribute to Rwanda’s future in food,” Malonga shares.

A Chef’s Daily Life in Musanze

For Malonga, Musanze offers the perfect balance between nature and creativity. His days begin with a run along the shores of the twin lakes, Burera and Rohondo, where mist rises over the water, revealing fishermen gliding across in traditional wooden boats.

“Burera Lake is breathtaking. The water is crystal clear, and the diversity of fish is astounding—it’s a true culinary treasure,” he says.

Musanze’s volcanic soil and lush climate make it a fertile ground for growing fresh produce, which Malonga incorporates into his experimental Afro-fusion dishes. His new Culinary Lab, currently under construction, will serve as a space for research, collaboration, and innovation, where chefs, farmers, and food enthusiasts can explore the future of African cuisine.

"My goal is to build something more than just a restaurant—I want to create an ecosystem where food, culture, and sustainability meet,” he explains.

Where to Stay: Luxury Meets Tradition

Musanze’s hospitality scene offers a seamless blend of luxury and local charm. In Kinigi, visitors can choose from world-class accommodations like One & Only Gorilla’s Nest, which provides an immersive experience surrounded by eucalyptus forests, or the charming Kinigi Cottage, where guests can wake up to the sounds of nature while being minutes away from gorilla trekking adventures.

“Kinigi Cottage is special because it allows visitors to experience Musanze’s beauty while staying connected to its deep agricultural roots,” Malonga says.

Beyond hotels, Musanze is also home to farm stays and eco-lodges, offering visitors a taste of rural Rwandan life. Guests can engage in coffee and honey harvesting, join traditional cooking classes, or simply enjoy the serene countryside.

Musanze’s Culinary Renaissance: The Future of Afro-Fusion Cuisine

As Malonga establishes his Culinary Lab and food ventures, Musanze is set to become a center of African gastronomic innovation. The region’s rich biodiversity, organic produce, and deep-rooted traditions make it the perfect setting for redefining the future of African cuisine.

“Rwandan ingredients have so much potential. By working directly with local farmers and fishermen, we can create flavors that tell a story of sustainability and tradition," he says.

Malonga’s vision is to blend culinary artistry with social impact; empowering local farmers, training young chefs, and celebrating African flavors on a global scale.

Why You Should Visit Musanze

Whether you’re a food enthusiast, nature lover, or cultural explorer, Musanze offers a one-of-a-kind experience. With its untouched landscapes, rich culinary heritage, and exciting new ventures, this region is quickly emerging as Rwanda’s next big destination.

So, if you’re looking for a place where nature, innovation, and food come together in the most extraordinary way, Musanze awaits; and there’s no better guide than Chef Dieuveil Malonga to show you its magic.