When it comes to buying Western-made products while in Africa, it’s often a gamble. You cross your fingers, hoping what you’re paying for is the real deal, even as prices stretch higher than usual. Import costs, middlemen, and the occasional “favour from a friend abroad” make the process part luxury, part leap of faith. But for Kigali’s scent lovers, that might be changing. The city’s fragrance scene just got a serious upgrade with the opening of Art of Essence, a new perfume studio at Landmark One House in the city centre. ALSO READ: African skincare brand Bellazuri debuts in Rwanda Step inside, and it feels like stepping into another world—clean lines, warm lighting, and the subtle hum of curated luxury. Shelves are lined with glass bottles that look more like art pieces than perfume, each one representing a different note, memory, or mood. The boutique’s philosophy is simple: “We believe in the power of fragrances,” a studio representative said. “Whether it’s an everyday scent, a statement fragrance, or a limited-edition blend, there’s something for every occasion.” ALSO READ: Coco Danczuk on wellness, work, and the ‘art of feeling beautiful’ During the visit, one of the co-founders mentioned that the concept came naturally. “There wasn’t much overthinking involved,” he said. “The market spoke to us. Within weeks of opening, we’re already considering expanding to other parts of Kigali. We see strong potential for more flagship stores here and eventually beyond.” As I eyed the price tags—some perfumes retail for Rwf100,000, others in the millions—I couldn’t help but ask who their customers are. With a knowing smile, he explained, “That’s why location matters. Being in the Central Business District means a lot of professionals pass by. Many of them used to wait for trips to Europe to buy their favourite scents. Now they can find them here, at the same retail price. We don’t overcharge; we simply convert brand prices into francs.” The brand’s goal is to serve those who view fragrance as both identity and art—individuals who value exclusivity, craftsmanship, and scent as self-expression. Among the labels on display are Atkinsons London, Clive Christian, XERJOFF, Ella K, M. Micallef, Paradis Des Sens, Scentologia, and Ducci Giardini di Toscana, among others. Art of Essence has also launched an e-commerce platform, artofessenceltd.com, offering nationwide delivery within two days and free international shipping. Beyond perfume, the store also stocks body creams, deodorant sprays, and luxury hand soaps. Perfume culture in Kigali has been quietly growing over the past few years, fuelled by a younger crowd interested in wellness, grooming, and global aesthetics. Art of Essence taps into that trend, offering access to international brands without the markup or middleman hustle. For Kigali’s scent lovers, Art of Essence could redefine what shopping local smells like—a mix of elegance, access, and the timeless art of fragrance. And perhaps, in light of that viral post claiming Rwandans don’t smell good, it’s time to challenge that narrative with a homegrown touch of class.
