How Nyarutarama, Area Once Laying in Genocide Ruin, Got Back Up

Nyarutarama is a neighborhood with a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century.

How Nyarutarama, Area Once Laying in Genocide Ruin, Got Back Up
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Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is comprised of several neighborhoods, each with its unique history and character. Here we focus on the history of one of the neighborhoods in Kigali, namely Nyarutarama.

Nyarutarama is a residential neighborhood located in the southeastern part of Kigali. It is bordered by the neighborhoods of Kacyiru to the north, Kimihurura to the west, and Remera to the east. Nyarutarama is known for its upscale homes, beautiful gardens, and green spaces, making it one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Kigali.

The history of Nyarutarama dates back to the early 20th century when Rwanda was under German colonial rule. At that time, the area was mainly used for agricultural purposes, with farmers cultivating crops such as maize, beans, and sweet potatoes. The land was later used as a military base during the colonial period, and after Rwanda gained independence in 1962, it was turned into a residential area.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Nyarutarama experienced rapid development as the Rwandan government embarked on a program to modernize and urbanize the country. The government encouraged private investment in the housing sector, which led to the construction of many modern homes and apartments in the area. Many foreigners also began to settle in Nyarutarama, attracted by its serene environment and proximity to the city center.

However, the neighborhood suffered greatly during the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which claimed the lives of over 800,000 people, mainly Tutsis and moderate Hutus. Many homes and businesses in Nyarutarama were destroyed during the genocide, and the area was left in ruins.

After the genocide, the Rwandan government embarked on a program to rebuild the country, and Nyarutarama was one of the areas that received significant attention. The government worked with private investors to rebuild the neighborhood, and today, Nyarutarama is a thriving residential area with modern homes, shopping centers, and recreational facilities.

In conclusion, Nyarutarama is a neighborhood with a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Although it suffered greatly during the 1994 genocide, it has since been rebuilt and is now one of the most desirable areas to live in Kigali. Its history is a testament to the resilience of the Rwandan people and their determination to rebuild their country after one of the darkest periods in its history.

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