Preserving Handicraft Traditions While Supporting Household Incomes

About this Project

Handweaving crafts is a deeply rooted tradition in Rwanda. For generations, women have crafted baskets, mats, and other woven materials, including elderly women who can weave these items while seated. Twenty-five women in Ruhuha, Rwanda, are committed to reviving and nurturing this cultural tradition through an initiative that will support their household incomes while passing on the custom to the younger generation. Adding to your investment of $3,700, the women’s group will co-invest $1,300 of their resources to establish a handicraft business. They will hire trainers to teach them how to weave a variety of items, purchase the necessary materials, and learn how to market them for sale. Working from their homes, the women will create the woven handicrafts while remaining present for their children. Profits from selling the handicrafts in their community and nearby towns will support their families’ essential needs.