Map of Rwanda

Rwanda

Most of the population of the Republic of Rwanda is Christian and nearly half (42.7%) is under 15. Rwanda is in the center of Africa, and toward the east. Germany colonized the land in 1884, followed by Belgium's invasion in 1916. The Hutu took command in 1959 and enacted genocide against the Tutsi people, who revolted in 1990. The Hutu retaliated with another genocide in 1994 in which 500,00 to 1,000,00 people were killed. The Tutsi finally ended the violence when their Rwandan Patriotic Force took over. The tremendous genocide over the years has caused the country to become a one-party state, banning political parties based on race, ethnic group, tribe, clan, region, sex, religion, or any other division which may give rise to discrimination. Despite an average rainfall of 100 cm a year, it is difficult for many to access fresh water. The country is home to 670 species of native birds.