Rwanda

File:Hymne National du Rwanda.ogg

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Rwanda Nyanza Mwami Palace

Juvénal Habyarimana (1980)

Nyamata Memorial Site 13

Paul Kagame 2014

RwandaParliament

Rwanda, officially known as the Republic of Rwanda, is a landlocked country located in the Great Rift Valley where the African Great Lakes region and East Africa converge. One of the smallest countries on the African mainland, its landscape is dominated by mountains in the west and savanna to the east, with numerous lakes throughout the country. The capital and largest city is Kigali.

Geography

Rwanda is bordered by Uganda to the north, Tanzania to the east, Burundi to the south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. Despite its small size, Rwanda has a varied geography, with the western part of the country situated in the Albertine Rift, a part of the Great Rift Valley, featuring mountains and dense forests. The eastern region consists of savannas, plains, and swamps.

History

The history of Rwanda dates back centuries, characterized by a monarchy system until it was colonized by Germany in 1884 and later by Belgium, which took control during World War I. The country gained independence from Belgium on July 1, 1962. Post-independence, Rwanda experienced ethnic tensions, notably between the majority Hutu and minority Tutsi populations, culminating in the Rwandan Genocide of 1994, during which an estimated 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed. Following the genocide, Rwanda has made significant progress in terms of political stability, economic growth, and social recovery.

Politics and Government

Rwanda is a unitary presidential republic. The President of Rwanda is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Rwandan government has been noted for its focus on national development, gender equality in politics, and efforts to combat corruption. However, it has also faced criticism for political repression and limitations on freedom of expression.

Economy

The Rwandan economy is based primarily on subsistence agriculture, with coffee and tea among its major cash crops. In recent years, the country has made strides in diversifying its economy, including through tourism, focusing on its natural attractions and the conservation of endangered species like mountain gorillas. Rwanda is also making efforts to become a regional technology hub.

Demographics

Rwanda's population is predominantly rural, and its culture is a blend of pre-colonial and colonial influences, with Kinyarwanda being the national language. The country has made significant progress in public health, notably in reducing child mortality and combating HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Culture

Rwandan culture includes traditional music and dance, often involving drums and the famous Intore dance. The country also has a growing arts scene, particularly in Kigali. Traditional crafts such as basket weaving are common, and the country celebrates the annual Gorilla Naming Ceremony, known as Kwita Izina.

Challenges

Despite its progress, Rwanda faces several challenges, including poverty, environmental degradation, and the need for further political reforms. The memory of the genocide remains a significant part of Rwanda's national consciousness, with ongoing efforts towards reconciliation and justice.