Rafiki Exchange’s Month of Mothers

A Day in the Life of a Mother in Africa

The typical morning routine for those of us in developed countries is familiar: we rise, press the button on our coffee machine, turn a knob and have a hot shower, eat breakfast at home or on the go, and then start our day. But what does an average day look like for mothers living in rural Africa?

According to an article in the Independent, the African mother often wakes before dawn and soon begins her long list of chores. In one day, she may kindle a fire, check to see if her chicken has laid eggs to trade in the market, help her husband for hours in the field, breastfeed her youngest child, and mend her children’s worn clothes.

​Without the luxury of running water, African women must walk miles to the nearest well each day. World Vision notes that the average African woman walks over 3.5 miles every day to haul 40 pounds of water, assuming her region is not in a draught. She cares for her husband and children the entire day and well after they are asleep in the evening. Many African women live without electricity and running water, and their only transportation is their feet.

​In these difficult conditions, African women must diligently care for their husbands and children.
 
We at the Rafiki Exchange seek to train African women so they can support themselves and their families. We partner with them, giving them dignified jobs and a chance to utilize their God-given talents as they craft beautiful products and study the Scriptures.