Rwanda is located in Eastern Africa, and its capital is Kigali. It has a population of approximately 14,256,567 and covers an area of about 26,338 km². Its official currency is the Rwandan franc (RWF).
What stands out
People & place
541 /km² across 26,338 km²
Rwanda has a recorded population of 14,256,567 and a reported surface area of 26,338 km².
Economic snapshot
$14.25 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $14.25 billion and GDP per capita at $1,000 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Practical reference
Rwandan franc (RWF)
Rwanda uses Rwandan franc (RWF), calling code +250, internet domain .rw.
About Rwanda
Rwanda, officially the Republic of Rwanda, is a landlocked country in the Great Rift Valley of Central Africa, where the African Great Lakes region and East Africa converge. It is located just south of the Equator, approximately 2 kilometers south of the equator. Rwanda is a mountainous country, earning it the nickname "Land of a Thousand Hills" (Kinyarwanda: Igihugu cy'Imihigo).
Rwanda is bordered by Uganda to the north, Tanzania to the east, Burundi to the south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. Its geography is dominated by highlands and volcanoes, with Lake Kivu forming part of the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The highest point in Rwanda is Mount Karisimbi.
The culture of Rwanda is rich and diverse, deeply rooted in its traditions and history. The dominant ethnic group is the Hutu, followed by the Tutsi and Twa. The national language is Kinyarwanda, with English and French also widely spoken. Traditional arts include intricate basketry, pottery, and painting, notably the 'imigongo' artwork. Music and dance play a significant role in celebrations and social gatherings.
The history of Rwanda is marked by a feudal past with a monarchy, followed by colonial rule under Germany and Belgium. Independence was gained in 1962. The country is tragically remembered for the 1994 Rwandan genocide, during which an estimated 800,000 people were killed. Since the genocide, Rwanda has undergone significant reconstruction and development.
Key facts
Capital: Kigali
Official Languages: Kinyarwanda, French, English, Swahili
Population: Approximately 13.2 million (2021)
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Rwanda has a recorded population of approximately 14,256,567 people.
How big is Rwanda?
Rwanda covers an area of about 26,338 km².
What is the population density of Rwanda?
Rwanda has a population density of roughly 541 /km² (people per square kilometre).
What is the GDP of Rwanda?
Rwanda has a gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $14.25 billion as of 2024.
What is the GDP per capita of Rwanda?
Rwanda has a GDP per capita of approximately $1,000.
What currency is used in Rwanda?
Rwanda uses the Rwandan franc (RWF), with the symbol FRw.
Where is Rwanda located?
Rwanda is located in Eastern Africa, Africa.
What are people from Rwanda called?
People from Rwanda are referred to as Rwandan.
What is the phone calling code for Rwanda?
The international dialing code for Rwanda is +250.
What is the internet domain for Rwanda?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Rwanda is .rw.
What time zone is Rwanda in?
Rwanda uses the Africa/Kigali time zone.
What is Rwanda known for?
Rwanda, officially the Republic of Rwanda, is a landlocked country in the Great Rift Valley of Central Africa, where the African Great Lakes region and East Africa converge. It is located just south of the Equator, approximately 2 kilometers south of the equator. Rwanda is a mountainous country, earning it the nickname "Land of a Thousand Hills" (Kinyarwanda: Igihugu cy'Imihigo).
Eastern Africa