Living in Rwanda

Rwanda lies in east-central Africa in the Great Lakes region and has around 12.3 million people. The hilly landlocked country is characterized by green highlands, volcanoes, lakes, and fertile valleys. Because of its elevation, temperatures are generally mild; rainy and dry seasons shape the course of the year, while the east is drier and the north more mountainous. Many people live in rural settlements, work in agriculture or small businesses, and get around on foot, by bicycle, or by bus. In Kigali, dense traffic, rental apartments, offices, and markets shape everyday life. In the countryside, houses, paths, and work rhythms depend more heavily on the landscape and harvest; family visits, shared meals, and sport are part of leisure in many places.