Twiyubake was formed in 2007 and consists of genocide widows working side-by-side with the wives of imprisoned génocidaires who killed their families. Twiyubake's composition fosters unity and reconciliation through economic community.
Every two weeks, the entire membership of Twiyubake travels to a different artisan's home to see where she lives and to visit with her family.
This month, Indego Africa staff had the privilege of joining Twiyubake for a home visit at the residence of Alphonsine, the newest member of Twiyubake.
The home visit kicked off with cooperative members preparing and serving everyone lunch. During the meal, representatives of Twiyubake and Indego Africa exchanged short speeches, expressing gratitude for each other's partnership. Some artisans then spoke candidly about their personal pasts, attributing an array of positive life changes to their membership in a cooperative.
When all had finished eating, the cooperative members broke out into traditional song and dance.
The Indego Africa team watched at first watched tentatively, before eventually accepting not-so-subtle overtures to join in the celebration.
Perhaps noting a little confusion on the dance floor, one helpful artisan anchored everyone to a single rhythm by drumming on a jerry can.
The impromptu dance party eventually attracted a throng of gawking neighborhood children.
According to one artisan, these rotating home visits are instrumental in Twiyubake maintaining a strong sense of community and purpose.
To donate to Twiyubake, visit: indegoafrica.org/twiyubake
