Hello and welcome! My name is John Habihirwe, and I live in Rwinkwavu Sector, Kayonza District, in the Eastern Province of Rwanda, near Akagera National Park. I’m a friendly and open-minded person who loves meeting travelers from all over the world and sharing our Rwandan culture, food, and traditions.

I’m the founder of HIRWA CHILDREN FOUNDATION NGO, which supports education for children from vulnerable families, and I also run Akagera Community Tourism and Bike Ride, offering authentic local experiences such as traditional cooking, banana beer making, basket weaving, and guided bike tours around our community.

I’ve worked in tourism and hospitality for several years, including at Ruzizi Tented Lodge inside Akagera National Park, and I enjoy connecting people through travel, culture, and nature. Hosting travelers gives me a chance to exchange ideas, learn about other cultures, and build friendships.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

joined Couchsurfing because I love meeting people from different countries and learning from their cultures, ideas, and experiences. Hosting travelers allows me to share the beauty of my community near Akagera National Park and show the real Rwandan lifestyle beyond the tourist sites.

I believe in kindness, cultural exchange, and helping each other. Many visitors who stay with me also get a chance to visit our community projects and see how we work to improve local education and create opportunities for young people.

For me, Couchsurfing is not just about offering a place to sleep — it’s about friendship, learning, and connection. 🌿

Music, Movies, and Books

🎵 Favorite Music

I enjoy traditional Rwandan music, especially songs that tell stories about our culture and daily life. I also like Afrobeat, reggae, and soft gospel music — anything with a positive message and good rhythm.

📚 Favorite Books

I like reading books that inspire personal growth and community development. Some of my favorites include stories about African leaders, education, and environmental conservation. I also enjoy reading true stories and books that teach new ideas about tourism, culture, and helping others.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One amazing thing I’ve done was starting Hirwa Children Foundation, a community-based NGO that supports education for children from vulnerable families in my village.

It began with just a small idea and a big dream — to make sure no child misses school because of poverty. Today, the foundation helps children with school materials, food, and community support, and it connects local people with volunteers from around the world.

Another memorable experience was living inside Akagera National Park when I was young. I used to walk through the park every day to go to school, surrounded by wildlife — it was a unique and unforgettable part of my life. 🦓🌿

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach:
I love teaching visitors about Rwandan culture and traditions — from how to cook local dishes, make banana beer, weave baskets, or dance to traditional drums. I also enjoy sharing my experience in community tourism and how we use it to support local families and children’s education.

Learn:
I’m always open to learning new ideas — especially about sustainable living, cultures, languages, and creative projects. Every traveler brings something new, and I enjoy learning from their stories and skills.

Share:
I love sharing my home, my culture, and my community’s hospitality. Whether it’s a cup of local tea, a walk around the village, or a talk around the campfire, I believe in sharing good energy and real human connection. 🌍✨

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share stories, culture, and the real Rwandan experience. When you stay with me, you’ll be welcomed like family. I can show you around my community near Akagera National Park, introduce you to local people, and give you a taste of our daily life.

You can join me in activities like:

Cooking traditional Rwandan food 🍲

Learning how to make banana beer 🍌

Weaving baskets or other local handcrafts

Bike rides and nature walks around the village 🚴‍♂️

Visiting community projects supported by my NGO

I can also help you plan or organize your visit to Akagera National Park or other parts of Rwanda, as I have experience as a driver and tour guide.

And of course — I always share good conversations, laughter, and friendship

Countries I’ve Visited

Kenya

Countries I’ve Lived In

Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia