Rwanda is one of the smallest countries in Africa; this landlocked country in East Africa with one of the highest population densities in the world. Rwanda's population is relatively young with 42.1% of the total population under 15 years old. Youth are and will remain a significant share of Rwanda's population for many years to come. The failure to provide opportunities for this large generation will have enormous economic, cultural, political and social consequences. Engaging youth fully in the region's development is thus, not a matter of choice, but rather an imperative.

The genocide in 1994 has had a devastating and lasting effect on the country. With not enough time to heal from the genocide and come to terms with the loss of so many people the country is now facing another crisis, with the rampant spread of HIV/AIDS. The impact of this epidemic is touching the entire country with an overwhelming blow to young adults. We are pleased that a strong political government in Rwanda is acting as critical catalyst for action by instituting HIV/AIDS prevention and care programs and initiatives.