Facts Behind the Land of a Thousand Hills
Rwanda is a country that carries a history as painful as it is inspiring. A nation that has not only survived but has chosen to rise and look forward to a brighter future. When I think of Rwanda, I think of the power of reconciliation, the courage to build bridges instead of walls, and what humanity can achieve when we work together.
In 1994, the country lay in ruins after the genocide that took over a million lives. Families were torn apart, trust was shattered, and the nation faced a monumental challenge: how to heal from unimaginable pain and rebuild as one. Rwanda chose reconciliation. Through community courts called Gacaca, victims and perpetrators sat face to face to seek justice and forgiveness. It was not an easy path, but it was a bold and necessary one. Today, Rwanda stands as a global example of how reconciliation, even in the face of deep wounds, can pave the way for unity and progress.
Sustainability is another part of Rwanda’s story that resonates with me. The country banned plastic bags as early as 2008, a step that not only makes Kigali one of Africa’s cleanest cities but also reflects its long-term vision. Their investment in renewable energy, particularly solar energy, is something close to my heart. Having worked with solar energy in the USA, Germany, and Australia, I know the profound impact it can have – not just on the environment but on the future of society. Rwanda shows that sustainability is not just an idea; it’s a reality.
But it’s not just the major decisions that make Rwanda unique; it’s also the small, collective actions. Every month, the entire country comes together for Umuganda, a national cleanup day where streets are swept, trees are planted, and communities are built together. Twice a month, streets are closed to cars during Car Free Day. Instead, they fill with people practicing yoga, cycling, running, and engaging in shared activities. It’s hard not to be inspired by a country that pauses to prioritize health, community, and the environment.
Rwanda is not just a country; it’s a story – one of resilience, of daring to believe in the future, and of creating change where it’s needed the most. For me, it’s a privilege to be able to travel there, to listen, to learn, and to let their story influence me. Rwanda has already shown the world what is possible, and I look forward to experiencing it firsthand.
I hope those of you reading this will join me on this journey, where I’ll not only discover Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes and culture but also their way of living and creating something greater together. Rwanda is truly a country that shows us that the future is always worth believing in.
“Life is like a game of cards. The hand you are dealt is determinism; the way you play it is free will.””
About
I am Therese, a traveler capturing the echoes of The Thousand Hills in Rwanda – the whispers of its history, the soul of its people, and the rhythm of its nature. Through my lens, like peering through binoculars, I look forward to exploring and listening to the murmuring voices beyond the horizon of these thousand hills. Hidden treasures await, and I am here to uncover and share them with you.
As a student of the TRAC Tourism and Travel Consultant program at YH Akademin in Uppsala, I am honored to represent my school and bring its values to life through this incredible experience. This journey has been made possible by the support of Erasmus+, whose sponsorship enables students like me to step into the world, gain invaluable international perspectives, and apply what we’ve learned in real-world contexts.
With this project, I aim not only to learn but also to inspire others by showcasing the opportunities that education and international collaboration can create. Together, YH Akademin and Erasmus+ are shaping professionals ready to embrace the global stage – and I am proud to be one of them.
None of this would have been possible without the incredible generosity of Bonita Mutoni, founder of Uber Luxe Safaris, who has given me the opportunity to be part of her company for four months. Her vision, leadership, and belief in the value of collaboration inspire me deeply, and this is my heartfelt tribute to her and her company for welcoming me into their world.
Through her kindness, I am not only discovering Rwanda’s treasures but also learning from a company that exemplifies excellence in tourism and sustainability. Thank you, Bonita, for this extraordinary chance to grow and contribute. am Therese, a traveler capturing the echoes of The Thousand Hills in Rwanda – the whispers of its history, the soul of its people, and the rhythm of its nature. Through my lens, like peering through binoculars, I look forward to exploring and listening to the murmuring voices beyond the horizon of these thousand hills. Hidden treasures await, and I am here to uncover and share them with you.