After the genocide finished, these widows were left to pick up the pieces, and somehow make a new life. With their husbands dead, the widows from the Hutu and Tutsi Tribes came together and made peace. By weaving baskets together these women found a way of healing in something that has been a part of Rwandan culture for centuries. The design woven onto the basket that is pictured on the left symbolizes two hands joined together. The widows chose this design because it symbolized forgiveness, peace, and unity by drawing two opposing sides who had suffered so much, together. The weaving and selling of these baskets to Western markets has gained the Rwandan widows economic independence and improved their local communities.
Now, 24 years later, 50% of homes in Rwanda are run by women. The women in this country still live in extreme poverty. Often $1.25 a day or less is what they have to feed and shelter themselves and their children. They are slowly rebuilding. The Rafiki Exchange has partnered with these very women, and are selling their baskets in our Local Exchanges, on our Online Exchange, and our new Etsy Shop. We are passionate about helping these widows support themselves and their children. |
Rafiki Foundation Website:
rafikifoundation.org |