
Rwanda's recent history
and the global community's inaction in the face
of genocide remain embedded in our thoughts -
however what has emerged from this dark chapter
is one of the most vibrant and forward thinking
countries in Africa. Situated in the heart of
the continent, with a population of over 10M and
land area of only 24,688 sq km Rwanda is the most
densely populated country in Africa.
90% of the population is engaged
in subsistence agriculture with high quality tea
and coffee being the major cash crops. Despite
having fertile soil and favourable climate, Rwanda
still requires importing a significant portion
of its food and food security remains a major
issue. GDP per capita remains low at $1,000 (2008)
and an estimated 60% of Rwandans live below the
poverty line. Child mortality, post natal care
and HIV remain high on the health agenda.
In trying to balance
in the inherent challenges of geography and population
Rwanda has moved forward in many areas since 1994
and in 2008 was the first country in the World
to have a higher representation of females to
males in its Parliament. Literacy rates have improved
hugely with now some of the highest in Africa
and the country's stated aim of becoming the information
technology hub for Africa shows a people that
seek to focus on the future.
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