Amazing Facts about Rwanda : A small African nation called Rwanda is well known for the horrifying genocide that took place there in 1994. It was among the most awful moments in history, not just of Rwanda but also of the entire planet. But it also marked a turning point in the history of the nation. Since then, it has started on a new path of social, economic, and ecological growth, and it should be remembered for more than just the 1994 events.
Here are some intriguing facts about Rwanda that will pique your interest and make you want to visit the nation on a Rwanda safari.
- Plastic bags are banned in Rwanda.
What you might not anticipate from an African nation is that it would be among the world’s cleanest. Rwanda is a case in point. There rarely is any trash present, and its public areas are consistently incredibly clean. That is partially attributable to the nation’s 2008 ban on plastic bags. Officials will inspect your luggage as you enter the nation, and they’ll ask you to take out any plastic bags you might have.
- The highest % of women in parliament in the world.
Rwanda has the greatest proportion of female lawmakers in the world, with almost 60% of its members being female.
- Every last Saturday of the month is community work day.
People across the country take part in community initiatives from 8 am to 11 am on the last Saturday of every month. People across the nation participate in activities like mowing the grass, clearing the streets and building schools. This custom is intended to assist people come together after the Genocide as well as to maintain everything neat and orderly.
- It is home to the endangered mountain gorillas.
The Virunga Massif, of which Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is a part, is home to about 60% of this species’ population. Given that humans and gorillas share more than 97% of the same genetic code, witnessing a gorilla in its natural environment is an unforgettable safari experience. Rwanda is very dedicated about its conservation. This implies that a gorilla trekking excursion, which costs more than $1500 to engage in the safari activity.
- it’s known as “The Land of a Thousand Hills”
Rwanda is known for its steep and hilly landscape. The average elevation of the nation is 1,000 metres above sea level, and it never falls below it.
- It was part of Germany.
Together with Tanzania, Rwanda was a part of Germany before it joined the Belgian Empire following World War One.
- One of the most horrific genocides in history happened here Rwanda’s population is made up mostly of Hutus and Tutsis.
These two ethnic groups have historically engaged in warfare, despite the fact that Rwandans are striving extremely hard to put their differences behind them. The violence reached its height in 1994, when the Hutus massacred almost a million Tutsis and moderate Hutus over the course of only about 100 days. With both soldiers and civilians using machetes and clubs as weapons, it is one of the fastest and most violent genocides in history.
- It inspired some of the greatest movies of all time.
2014 drama “Hotel Rwanda” was based on the true account of Paul Rusesabagina, the manager of the Hotel des Mille Collines, who was able to stop the 1994 genocide and rescue hundreds of lives. Now that it is opened, this hotel is among those that visitors to Kigali most frequently choose. The 1998 drama “Gorillas in the Mist” is another well-regarded drama that was inspired by true occurrences. It chronicles the tale of biologist Dian Fossey, who spent a great deal of time studying mountain gorillas and working to preserve them. In fact, one of the most well-known hiking trails bears her name and links to both her research site and tomb.
- Rwanda is the most densely populated country in Africa.
It is the most populous country in Africa, with an estimated average population density of 274.6 persons per square kilometre.
- Rwanda has four official languages.
French, English, Kinyarwanda, and Kiswahili are all recognized as official languages of Rwanda.
- Rwanda hosts a car-free day.
Rwanda has a car-free day every month to encourage sustainable living and healthy lifestyles. On these days, Rwanda’s streets are crowded with people engaging in outdoor sports like roller skating, biking, and running.
