RUHENGERI

prfecture, northern Rwanda, central Africa, bordering Congo (Kinshasa) and Uganda (north) and the prfectures of Kigali and Gitarama (south), Byumba (east), and Gisenyi (west). Ruhengeri's relief varies considerably; elevation ranges from 4,900 feet (1,500 m) in the central region to more than 8,200 feet in the northwest, where part of the Virunga chain of volcanic mountains is located. Crops or pasture occupy most of Ruhengeri's area of 680 square miles (1,760 square km). The alluvial valleys and rich volcanic soils of the prfecture yield large crops of potatoes, bananas, sorghum, coffee (arabica), and tea. Ruhengeri's industrial activities include pyrethrum (a natural insecticide) processing and flour milling. A hydroelectric plant operates at Ntaruka on Lakes Bulera (Burera) and Luhondo (Ruhondo), producing 30,000,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. Roads connect Ruhengeri with the city of Kigali, the towns of Gisenyi and Gitarama, and with the neighbouring country of Uganda. The prfecture's administrative centre is Ruhengeri town, which is the site of a modern hospital, an airstrip, and an insecticide (pyrethrum) factory. Pop. (1991) 766,112.