Widowhood in Rwanda

In 1994 the finish of the Rwandan Genocide, which came from a 100 day mass murder from the Hutu and Tutsi Tribes, left over 800,000 people dead. Studies show that 1 in 10 Rwandans died during these 100 days. The effects of having almost 1 million people die in less than four months is staggering. Rwanda quickly became a country with more women than men. The scars and trauma these women carry with them is both tragic and inspiring. They survived things most of us couldn’t even dream of. They watched their children and husbands get hacked into bits by men with machetes, or were trapped while their neighbors were violently clubbed to death. Their homes were destroyed and burned to the ground while they were forced to watch. For a lot of these women, what they went through after watching this unfold, would be what some would call a fate worse than death. Violent rapings were condoned and these women suffered in the most extreme ways because of it. Some were left after all this took place to, “die of sadness.” 

The Story of the Peace Basket

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. 

Baskets Woven by the Widows in Rwanda

Rwandan Baskets

$40.00

This is basket was handwoven by a widow in Rwanda. This is a great decorative item. You can hang it on the wall or set it on your coffee table. Not only is it beautiful on it's own, but it also is very functional too. Leave it on your kitchen counter and turn it into a fruit basket, place your car keys in it, or sit knick knacks in it that you don't want strewn around the counters!
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Serving Baskets

$30.00
These sturdy hand-made baskets are all made from tight woven sisal. The colors are made from natural dyes making each one unique. These serving baskets also vary in size, ranging from about 15-18 inches in length from handle to handle.
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Baskets with Lids

$29.00

This is a handwoven basket from Rwanda. Though it's small in size, this basket is quality made, sturdy, and is sure to stand the test of time. The blue and dark brown strands woven in with the natural grass add just enough for a lovely pop of color, while still being neutral. A use for this basketcould be for holding washcloths, or even to set on display in your living area. This product is the very definition of the word versatile.




Since each and every product is handmade, each product is unique and special. That being said, size may slightly vary. This basket is roughly 5 inches in height and 6 inches in width.
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Natural Rectangular Tray

$40.00
These trays from Rwanda are versatile and can serve in a host of functions. They are sturdy, durable, and come with built-in handles.
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Peace Baskets

$20.00

Handwoven by widows in Rwanda, these Peace Baskets have a special story.




The Rwandan Genocide in 1994 left over 800,000 killed in 3 months. With their husbands dead, and their children slaughtered before their eyes, the widows of the two opposing sides came together and made these baskets. Peace Baskets. And in unity, these women are trying to rebuild their lives together.
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Peace Basket Ornament

$8.00
Peace Basket Ornaments from Rwanda. The pattern woven into the basket symbolizes two hands joined together. The Rwandan Genocide in 1994 left over 800,000 people slaughtered in 3 months. With their husbands dead and their children murdered before their eyes, the widows of the two opposing sides came together and made these baskets. Peace Baskets. Now in unity, these women are trying to rebuild their lives together.
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