Paul Kagame

Kagame led the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) in a civil war against the Hutu-led government. The war ended with the Arusha Accords in 1993, but the peace was short-lived.

Kagame's RPF captured Kigali and ended the 100-day genocide that killed an estimated 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus. The RPF victory stopped the massacres but also led to reprisal killings.

Kagame's Rwanda invaded Zaire (DRC) twice, supporting rebel groups and exploiting Congolese resources. The wars caused millions of deaths and destabilized the Great Lakes region.

Kagame implemented economic reforms that led to rapid growth, with Rwanda becoming one of Africa's fastest-growing economies. He focused on technology, infrastructure, and attracting foreign investment.

Kagame became President of Rwanda, succeeding Pasteur Bizimungu. He formed a government of national unity, including Hutus in key positions, to promote reconciliation after the genocide.

Kagame oversaw a constitutional referendum that removed term limits, allowing him to run for a third term in 2017. Critics accused him of entrenching authoritarian rule.