Rwanda.Since 1994, the country's name has been synonymous with genocide. The numbers are staggering. Estimates say that up to 500,000 women and girls were raped, tortured and physically abused during the genocide. The impact of these horrors is still felt today, but Rwanda is rebuilding now with the leadership of the women.
Women are paying the highest price.
The deaths of over 800,000 people during the 1994 genocide and the displacement of 2,000,000 more left the country 70% female. Over ⅓ of households are headed by women. And 80% of these are run by impoverished widows.
Women are raising children that are the result of brutal crimes. Many have sexually transmitted diseases – in fact over ¼ million children have been orphaned by AIDS alone. Despite the extreme poverty many Rwandans find room in their hearts to adopt as many as 6 orphaned children, treating every child like their own, a mantra of the country and its President, Paul Kagame.
But the Real Story isn't the Suffering …
It's the Rwandan women's ability to triumph over every obstacle. Because of Rwandan women's courage and willingness to speak, for the first time in history, rape is being prosecuted as a war crime. Previously, in post-genocide Rwanda, rape had been considered a third degree crime. What's more, the election of 2003 put 49% of the parliament seats to women, giving women a voice and a platform in which to use it.
Generous, Caring Support from Women Like You is Bringing Hope and Healing to Rwandan Women.
Women come to our offices like this:
95% of homes have no electricity
98.3% report not having running water in their home
53% of women have only received some primary education
Nearly 30% have received no formal education at all
82% do not speak the official language of Rwanda
After just one year in Women for Women International Programs:
50% of women say their ability to read and write has improved
80% say their economic situation is better
49% of the women plan to start their own business
80% report imrovement in their economic situation
93% of the women feel that their health and their families health has increased
99% say their self-confidence has improved
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