Short Answer 
The exploitation during European colonialism in Africa led to economic and social injustices, creating tensions among ethnic groups. In Rwanda, colonial policies favored the Tutsi over the Hutu, resulting in deep-seated resentment that culminated in the 1994 genocide, where approximately 800,000 Tutsi were killed, highlighting the lasting impact of colonialism on ethnic relations and conflicts in the region.
Step 1: Understanding Colonial Exploitation
The era of European colonialism in Africa, which began in the late 19th century, was fundamentally driven by the goal of exploiting Africa’s vast resources. European powers divided the continent among themselves and imposed systems that forced African populations into labor-intensive roles. This exploitation led to economic disparities and social injustices, fostering resentment and instability within African societies.
Step 2: Ethnic Tensions and Colonial Policies
The colonial administration, particularly the Belgians in Rwanda, intensified divisions between ethnic groups. They favored the minority Tutsi over the majority Hutu, creating a legacy of resentment and segregation. This preferential treatment instituted by colonial powers set the stage for future conflicts, establishing a hostile atmosphere ripe for violence and revenge once Africa achieved independence.
Step 3: The Genocide’s Roots
Following Rwanda’s independence in 1962, the power shift from the Tutsi to the Hutu sparked violent reprisals against the Tutsi population, culminating in the horrific Rwandan genocide of 1994. An estimated 800,000 Tutsi were brutally murdered in a short span. The underlying causes for this genocide can be traced back to colonial policies that fostered division, making the connection between European colonialism and the tragedy in Rwanda indisputable.