5 Reasons We Love Rwanda
There is a vast amount of beauty, wonder, patriotism and pride in this country where we do our work. One of Kula's core values is 'We love Rwanda', as a commitment, belief, and relationship with its people, land, and vision. Through this article, we hope to share the uniqueness and inspiration that drives the "why" behind our love for Rwanda.
Equality
In 2003 the newly revised Rwandan constitution mandated that a minimum of 30% of the nation’s parliament members be women. Since then, that percentage has rocketed, with an average around 61% over the last few years- leading the world by far. Second on the list is Cuba, at 53%, and the US, currently at its largest percentage in history, ranks 66th at 29%.
This constitutional action has had far-reaching implications, with increased numbers of women in every area of government, law enforcement, and business leadership, especially in Rwanda’s urban areas.
Throughout the country, while cultural change has been understandably slower, the mandate has served as a precedent, with the idea of gender equity and women’s empowerment being part of the national conversation.
Even in Kula’s programs, while many of the families we begin working with haven’t yet fully adopted the new mindset, the government’s shift serves as an example for our staff to refer to, and to show the strength and progress that comes with supporting female voices.
2. Wildlife
From the vast plains of Akagera, to the dense rainforest of Nyungwe, to the stark volcanoes of Virunga, Rwanda’s national parks provide unparalleled beauty and the opportunity to see some of the most wild, rare and amazing wildlife on the planet.
Akagera is home to the incredible Big 5 (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, buffalos), but not only those- its lake teams with crocodiles, hippos, and hosts of birds, and throughout the park one can find zebra, antelope, impala, and so much more.
In Nyungwe families of chimpanzees protect their surroundings, along with 12 other primate species, together with duikers, golden cats, forest hogs, and bushbucks- just to name a few.
And in Virunga live over 1,000 various species of mammal, bird, reptile and amphibian, including the great endangered mountain gorillas- an encounter with whom is a once in a lifetime experience.
Rwanda is investing heavily to ensure conservation and protection for its wildlife and lands, and continuing to grow access and opportunities for both nationals and tourists alike to interact with them responsibly.
3. Cultural Dances and Celebrations
Rwanda’s traditional dances are a rich and beautiful part of its history and culture.
Performed during ceremonies, celebrations and gatherings, there are numerous styles from different parts of the country, ranging from graceful and elegant to fierce and powerful. Often incorporating grass wigs, spears and shields, and traditional skirts and dresses, and nearly always accompanied by drums, many dances harken to past pastoral or warrior lifestyles, and serve as a powerful connector between modern and historical Rwanda.
No Kula celebration is complete without showcasing these amazing dances, bringing together staff, fellows, and visitors to enjoy some of Rwanda’s strongest artistic customs.
4. Umuganda
Rwanda has taken aggressive measures to promote and ensure a clean country, highlighted by Kigali, its capital.
Since 2008 single-use plastic bags and plastic packaging have been banned, and large investments have been made in improving roads and public transportation, and in a huge force of street cleaning.
Additionally, the last Saturday of each month is reserved for ‘Umuganda’- community service projects in which each neighborhood comes together to clean, maintain its landscape, or work on other needed initiatives. And when there’s nothing pressing, it’s a great reason for spending time with neighbors.
The result has been a noticeably different capital- its orderliness, efficiency, and lack of litter stand in stark contrast to its regional neighbors. It has driven increased tourism and investment, and become a great source of pride and part of the national identity throughout Rwanda.
5. Rwandan’s Belief in Themselves
Though small in size, Rwanda is mighty in spirit.
From its natural beauty, to its rich traditional culture and forward-looking policies and progress, there is so much to celebrate. Bringing it all together is Rwandans' belief in themselves.
Despite experiencing the worst horrors of human division, they have chosen to rebuild in unity and cast a strong vision for renewed identity, marked by shared history and values. Emerging as a country now known for stability, peace and development, Rwanda is ushering in a new era of growth, one that is driven by the optimism and patriotism of its people.