The area was the site of an important occupation throughout the 14th and 15th centuries (with foundry, metallurgy and pottery activities), without a doubt the after-effects of the acquisition by Jean de Salm of the lower valley of Bruche in 1366, from Mutzig to Schirmeck.
Gisenyi is also home to Bralirwa, the only brewery in Rwanda, which manufactures various local beers Primus and Mützig, as well as Amstel, Guinness and a range of Coca Cola brand soft drinks.