Rwanda, a small landlocked country in East-Central Africa, is often referred to as the "Land of a Thousand Hills" due to its picturesque mountainous landscape. Its history is a tapestry of ancient kingdoms, colonial rule, and a remarkable journey toward recovery and reconciliation. Historically dominated by the Tutsi monarchy, Rwanda became a German colony in the late 19th century before coming under Belgian administration after World War I. Decades of colonial "divide and rule" policies exacerbated ethnic tensions between the Tutsi and Hutu populations, ultimately culminating in the horrific 1994 genocide, during which approximately 800,000 people, predominantly Tutsi, were killed in just 100 days. In the aftermath, Rwanda embarked on a profound transformation under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, emphasizing national unity, economic development, and justice through mechanisms like the Gacaca courts. Today, Rwanda is recognized for its rapid economic growth, strong centralized governance, and efforts to heal and build a peaceful, resilient society.