On Thursday 27 February 2020 HE Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda officially opened the three-month old One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, in the foothills of the breath-taking Virunga volcano range. The luxury hotel, Kerzner’s second in the area, is in Kinigi, northwest Rwanda, five minutes from Volcanoes National Park, a rainforest that is home to the highest number of mountain gorillas, five dormant volcanoes.
The President and First Lady were welcomed by HE Mohammed Al Shaibani, Executive Director & CEO of Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD) and Chairman of Kerzner International – shown above, the Chairman, left, and the President. Also there were Michael Wale, CEO of Kerzner International, and an important bunch of Dubai dignatories, plus many eminent Rwandans. There was a grand welcome by traditional Rwandan drummers and this was followed by a tour of the resort.
“I am proud to introduce One&Only Gorilla’s Nest to the world”, said HE Mohammed Al Shaibani. “I would like to thank HE President Paul Kagame for welcoming Kerzner International and One&Only to Rwanda, a beautiful and enchanting country. Where this country is today is a true testament to his leadership and vision – Rwanda is now regarded as one of the safest countries in the world, progressive–with a clear and positive vision for sustainability, conservation and protection of our sacred wildlife including the magnificent mountain gorilla. I am proud that One&Only has been part of Rwanda’s vision and that we are able to offer guests the best the country has to offer. We have made a significant investment in the country and are committed to the long-term success of Rwanda.”
Guests enjoyed a special plant-based menu personally cooked by Los Angeles-based celebrity guest chef, Matthew Kenney (“It was delicious”, says Michael Wale). Kenney was supported byOne&Only Gorilla’s Nest culinary team, who all celebrate the country’s abundant produce from the resort’s gardens.
Rwanda is the perfect location for One&Only, said Michael Wale – “We are proud to be part of the destination, working with the Rwandan Government to ensure the long-term sustainability of the experience.”
