···· Our Program ····
···· How We Started ····
The Rift Valley Women's Group (RVWG) is an initiative created through the support of the Tanzanian Children's Fund. TCF is a nonprofit organization providing a permanent home to 102 marginalized children, access to high quality education, free healthcare, and microloans to the Oldeani Ward in northern Tanzania. In 2015, TCF’s Rifty Economic Advancement Program (REAP) introduced a variety of skills-based trainings to help members of the community find new sources of income. In this community, many people earn their living through coffee picking, which pays less than $2 a day. By providing these women with trainings, business development and support, we are not only increasing their annual income, but allowing their families to break free from the cycle of poverty.
···· Who We Impact ····
When the trainings began in 2015, only a small group of women showed interest. Through their hard work and dedication, they quickly learned how to make a combination of beaded, sewn, and woven handicraft products. Today, the program employs 14 women and continues to provide skills-based trainings to more women in the community. The success of this initiative has allowed these women to independently provide for their families, invest in their children's education, and improve their living conditions.
···· Who We Partner With ····
Our unique designs and high quality products has allowed us to establish partnerships with lodges all over Tanzania. We now supply products and customized orders for a variety of clients in the Karatu District, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Zanzibar.
···· Our COVID-19 Response ····
To further support the health and to protect our wider community during the COVID-19 pandemic, we adapted our skills to make kitenge face masks and hospital gowns in response to the demand for protective gear. Following the recommendations provided by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), we have produced over 7,000 masks for hospitals, organizations, businesses, and schools in the Karatu District.