Komera Leadership Centre building in Rwanda ranked among the 24 most remarkable in the world (Photos)
The Komera Leadership Centre, located in Rwinkwavu Sector, Kayonza District in Rwanda’s Eastern Province, has been recognized among the 24 most outstanding buildings in the world, according to a list published by the UK-based magazine Time Out.
Released late last week, the list highlights architectural masterpieces around the globe — buildings with significant historical value, exceptional design, or unique features that set them apart.
Komera’s facility in Rwanda ranked 22nd, praised for its striking design that creatively incorporates traditional Rwandan Imigongo art into the arrangement of its bricks, forming culturally symbolic patterns on its façade.
The structure is also notable for its functional flexibility — spaces can be quickly transformed from a conference room to classrooms or a multi-purpose hall depending on the need. These conversions are done efficiently without disrupting other ongoing activities.
Almost all of the materials used in the construction were sourced locally, and women and girls made up 40% of the workforce involved in building the facility.
The architectural design was carried out by BE_Design, a firm based in New York. The centre officially opened its doors in September 2022.
This is not the first time the building has received international recognition — in 2023, it was shortlisted for the prestigious Architizer A+Awards, which celebrates excellence in global architecture.
Komera Leadership Centre is operated by the Komera organization, which works to empower women and girls through education, leadership development, and community programs, aiming to transform lives and promote inclusive progress.
Topping the Time Out list is India’s world-famous Taj Mahal, followed by Hallgrímskirkja Church in Iceland. Egypt’s Pyramids secured third place, Ad-Dayr in Jordan’s Petra came in fifth, while France’s Fondation Louis Vuitton and Ireland’s Trinity College Library ranked sixth and seventh respectively.
