History of Rwanda September 1961, a referendum was held to establish whether Rwanda should become a republic or remain a kingdom. Citizens voted overwhelmingly for a republic. After parliamentary elections held on the same day, the first Rwandese Republic was declared, with Kayibanda as prime minister. Dominique Mbonyumutwa was named the first president of the transitional government. Between 1961 and 1962, Tutsi guerrilla groups staged attacks into Rwanda from neighboring countries. Rwandan Hutu-based troops responded, and thousands more were killed in the clashes. On 1 July 1962, Belgium, with UN oversight, granted full independence to the two countries. Rwanda was created as a
Energy in Rwanda Energy in Rwanda Energy use in Rwanda is undergoing rapid change at the beginning of the 21st century. The extent of grid electricity is limited and mainly concentrated near Kigali. Most of the country uses firewood as its main energy source. Rwanda is planning to expand from 218 MW of grid power in 2018 to 586 MW in 2024 and may import as much some additional from neighboring countries. In addition, it is installing small solar units throughout the country to ensure electricity to buildings not connected to the national grid, or to help deal with power outages. Currently, the