Following the genocide, widows were left to create a new life for themselves. With their husbands dead, the widows from the warring Tutsi and Hutu tribes gathered together to make peace.
By weaving baskets together, the widows found healing through a centuries-old relic of Rwandan culture—the Peace Basket, pictured to the left. The widows chose this design because the two contrasting colors woven together symbolize the forgiveness and unity of two opposing forces achieving harmony. Now, 26 years post-genocide, Rwandan widows continue to live in extreme poverty—many subsisting on $1.25 a day or less to feed and shelter themselves and their children. However, these women are slowly rebuilding their lives, homes, and nation. While Rwandan women have experienced what some would call a fate worse than death, the Rafiki Foundation continues to help them restore their lives through our Widow's Program and presents them with the life-giving Word of God through daily Bible study. Supporting these widows and their families is our privilege and our passion. |
Rafiki Foundation Website:
rafikifoundation.org |