This thesis describes the relationship of the Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups in Kigali and the causes of ethnic conflicts in Rwanda. Identity issues in Rwanda prior to 1994 genocide becomes imperative to understand the role colonialism played. Through the use of the qualitative research method, this will explain the history, the root of ethnicity and ethnic identity between the Hutu and the Tutsi. Furthermore, the primary and secondary research methods are used for collection of data sources to describe the connection between the Hutu and the Tutsi before colonization, the period of colonization and post colonization.The reasons for the mass killing of the Tutsi during the ethnic conflict in 1994.The perception of ethnic identity between the Hutu and Tutsi before colonization moved from the friendly to hatred during colonization and post colonization. The research seeks to understand and determine how identity politics was used as a tool to aid colonialism. In Rwanda, the need to move back to the ancient way of life before colonization is important in which the ethnic groups see each other as one big family and accept themselves as one in order to live in peace and harmony.Based on my research, there are limitations to this study which is the accuracy of the participants claims or experiences is best based on their exposition as I could not substantiate or proof the veracity of their claims. I was based in Kigali for less than a month and did not have a huge budget to go around Rwanda to get more interviewees from other parts of Rwanda to have other people’s view from other parts of Rwanda. It would have shed more light to the experiences of the genocide. I hope to further on this research to have a huge view of how Rwandans felt the impact of genocide.