Inside Africa's cleanest country where tourists have suitcases searched for plastic bags

Africa is once again a popular destination for travelers as its tourism industry bounces back from the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time since the health crisis, Africa has exceeded pre-pandemic levels of international tourist arrivals.

Fresh data reveals that the continent greeted 74 million visitors in 2024, marking a 7% rise from 2019 and a 12% increase compared to 2023. This surge in travelers has been experienced across the continent, but North Africa felt it particularly.

This robust performance positioned Africa as the second-fastest recovering region globally in 2024, trailing only the Middle East. Rwanda, situated in the eastern part of the continent, is one country reaping the benefits of this tourism boom.

Positioned just a few degrees south of the Equator, Rwanda shares borders with Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, reports the Express. Despite being landlocked and spanning just 26,338 square kilometers, it houses 12.2 million people, making it one of the most densely populated countries in Africa.

Many regard it as the cleanest country in Africa, thanks to its prohibition on plastic bags and community initiatives aimed at enhancing local neighborhoods.

Since 2008, plastic bags have been outlawed in the country, and travelers are inspected upon arrival to ensure they aren't carrying any. Every last Saturday of the month, Rwandans unite for mandatory community service, known as Umuganda.

Residents are actively involved in cleaning up the streets and public areas, as well as constructing community infrastructure. Rwanda's stunning natural landscapes and remarkable wildlife are just a few of its main attractions.

The country is renowned for its mountain gorillas in the north, which have been the subject of study by primatologist Dian Fossey for many years. Her research has led to the establishment of the first permanent, purpose-built gorilla research and education center.

The Ellen Campus, which opened its doors in 2022 near Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, is the realization of a dream that spanned two decades. The revelation comes as the country boasts some of the world's most stunning natural wonders, and the Miombo Forest is no exception. This vast expanse of vibrant greenery spans seven countries and covers an area as large as Mexico, playing a vital role in environmental conservation and biodiversity.

The forest is a lifeline for local economies and a key player in the fight against climate change. It has been predicted that several cities could be underwater by 2050 due to climate change, marking the importance of the current climate change fight and the Miombo Forest's role.

The Miombo Forest extends across seven Central and West African nations: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its dense vegetation and expansive landmass make it an ecological wonder and a crucial carbon sink that absorbs significant amounts of carbon dioxide, helping combat global warming.

Rare animals such as forest elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, and okapis find refuge here, along with countless plant species and insects. The forest's ecosystem is intricately balanced, with each species playing a critical role in maintaining the environment's health.