Group H

Group H consists of women from four different villages in Rwanda. Most of them are in their 20s, but there are also some older Mamas, the oldest just over 70. They did not know each other before the course, but now there is constant talking, discussion and laughter. It is wonderful to see how young and old spend time and play together as if they were the same age! Every day started with play!

The course is part of Baho Neza’s work to empower women and children through knowledge, health, culture and community. A central part of this work is the local ambassadors, who have themselves taken part in training and now pass on their knowledge in their villages.

During the course with Group H, the ambassadors also took on their own responsibility for the entire event. They planned the meals, made the budget, did the shopping and organized the cooking for 20 people. The group consisted of 16 participants, two ambassadors, Mudi and me. The ambassadors were also responsible for the games and physical exercise that started each course day. In this way, they not only deepened their knowledge, but also gained practical experience in planning, organizing and leading a group.

The women in Group H are incredibly eager to learn and ask countless questions about the body, health and things that happen in their own families. Many say that they do not get the opportunity to ask questions when they visit doctors. Here, the aim instead is to create a safe environment where all questions are welcome and where everyone learns together through dialogue. No question is wrong or stupid!

Topics have included the body, toothbrushing and plastic in nature. One day was devoted to children and parenting. There was discussion about whether it is really possible to create respect by hitting children, or whether love, hugs and security are a better way. There was also conversation about children’s integrity and dignity and about how violence can be passed on from one generation to the next.

There has also been cooking together, including pasta salad, ratatouille, fruit salad and guacamole with potatoes. Even though many of the ingredients were familiar, several of the dishes were new experiences for the participants.

It is the ambassadors who make it possible for Baho Neza’s work to live on after the course days. Through their regular meetings with women and children, they can share knowledge, follow up on questions and encourage new conversations. By also taking responsibility for planning, activities and practical tasks during Group H, they develop their own leadership skills and gain experience that they can use in their continued work.

On the final day, all participants received a diploma as confirmation that they had completed the course. It means a lot to them to be able to take the diploma home and show what they have learned!

After the diploma ceremony, spontaneous dancing broke out!

There is a sense that the work could continue for many more days. Once the discussions get going, they take off in all possible directions. There is not enough time to answer everything, but hopefully many small seeds are planted that will continue to grow.

Baho Neza’s idea is to learn together, share knowledge and empower people to empower others. The ambassadors are the key to ensuring that knowledge spreads further – from person to person and from village to village.