Geographic Location
Location in Africa: Rwanda is located in East-Central Africa, bordered by Uganda to the north, Tanzania to the east, Burundi to the south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west.
Latitude and Longitude: Approximately 2°00′S, 30°00′E.
Size: 26,338 square kilometers.
Population
Population: Estimated at 13.6 million.
Economy
GDP (2025):
- Nominal GDP: Approximately $14.5 billion.
- GDP per capita: Around $1,066.
National Symbols
Anthem: “Rwanda Nziza” (Beautiful Rwanda).
National Pledge: Rwanda does not have an official national pledge.
Culture and Customs
Ethnic Groups: Predominantly Hutu, with Tutsi and Twa minorities.
Languages: Kinyarwanda (official), French, English, and Swahili.
Religion: Christianity is the dominant religion, with Roman Catholicism and Protestantism being the most practiced.
Customs: Rwandan culture emphasizes community, respect for elders, and traditional music and dance. The “Umuganda” (community work) is a monthly tradition where citizens contribute to public projects.
Main Airports
- Kigali International Airport (KGL): The main international gateway.
- Kamembe Airport (KME): Serves the southwestern region near Lake Kivu.
Popular Tourist Destinations
- Volcanoes National Park: Famous for mountain gorilla trekking.
- Akagera National Park: Known for its savanna wildlife and game drives.
- Nyungwe Forest National Park: A biodiversity hotspot with canopy walks and primates.
- Lake Kivu: A scenic lake offering water activities and relaxation.
- Kigali Genocide Memorial: A historical site commemorating the 1994 genocide.
Events and Festivals
- Kwita Izina: A gorilla naming ceremony held annually.
- Liberation Day (July 4): Celebrates the end of the 1994 genocide.
- Umuganura Day: A traditional harvest festival.
- Kigali Up Festival: A music and arts event.
Practical Information
Calling Code: +250.
Country Domain: .rw.
Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF).