Day 9 - Dufatanye Cooperative

July 18, 2018

Today we visited one of our newest co-ops, Dufatanye (“Helping Each Other”), located in northern Rwanda on the way to the gorillas. Dufatanye is a women’s cooperative, whose members all have AIDS.

Since we don’t have any other co-ops in the area, it was our first time journeying to this part of Rwanda - and it did not disappoint. Arguably the most lush, stunning landscape we’ve seen so far, we climbed high into hills decorated with banana plantations and small blue-door huts.

As we pulled up, we were met by cheering women dressed in fabrics of all colors and patterns. Our embraces were long, and our smiles wide.

We gathered together for introductions, and listened to the origin story of Dufatanye.

After testing positive for HIV, many of the women faced severe discrimination from their communities. They were referred to as "short lasting people," meaning they weren't expected to live long.

Over time, they found each other and began working together to stay alive. They somehow heard about Justin and our work with other co-ops, so the women sought him out, looking for guidance in forming a cooperative. (Co-ops are government-sanctioned entities, and just follow strict regulations.)

Impressed by their work ethic and dedication to improving their lives, we welcomed Dufatanye as an official WD4H co-op in January 2017. Justin has spent the last year and a half working with these people, shaping their minds and promoting the qualities of successful cooperatives: reconciliation, hard work, commitment, optimism, and love.

Our first project with this community will be a goat delivery funded by our very own Olga. Before the trip, Olga started a fundraiser among her family and friends to raise 135 goats for Dufatanye. And she did it!!! Goats are $45 apiece, giving us a total of $6,075 raised.

Originally, the plan was to deliver Dufatanye's goats while we were visiting, but due to a country-wide quarantine, it wasn’t possible. However, Olga was able to deliver the exciting news in person! The women had no idea their dream had come true and they practically attacked Olga with hugs and dancing and cheering and uncontrollable joy! A very special moment...

We also discussed their future business plans, which include making handcrafts and providing photocopying services to the region. Dufatanye is located right next to a major hospital, and in order to be seen by a doctor, one must have photocopies of all their health documents. Currently, there is only one copy machine in the town, and the waiting line is always gigantic, so this second one is more than needed.

After a quick water filter and reusable menstruated pad demonstration, we said our goodbyes and headed back to Kigali.

Tomorrow, we begin our long journey south to the Cyangugu region, where we will stay until Sunday.

It was also our last day with Danna, Pamela, and Jill! We wish them a safe journey home, and are so grateful for their presence on the first half of this trip.

Biracyaza ~ Onward!