Indego Africa is a social enterprise that works to empower women artisans in Rwanda and Ghana through economic opportunity and education. One of their signature products is the Rwanda Peace Basket, a handcrafted basket made by Rwandan women that symbolizes their journey toward peace and reconciliation after the country's devastating genocide in 1994.

The Rwanda Peace Basket is just one example of a beautiful handmade basket from Africa that is both functional and decorative. African baskets come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and are made from a range of materials, including grasses, fibers, and recycled materials.

However, the Rwandan basket stands out for its unique history and symbolism. In the aftermath of the genocide, many Rwandan women were left widowed and impoverished. Indego Africa recognized the potential of these women as artisans and began working with them to develop their weaving skills and market their products to a global audience.

The Rwanda Peace Basket, in particular, represents the journey of healing and reconciliation that the country has undergone since the genocide. The basket is woven with three colors – white, symbolizing peace and purity; black, representing the sorrow and mourning of the past; and red, symbolizing the bloodshed during the conflict. The basket's shape is also significant – it is round to represent unity and has a small opening to signify the need for forgiveness and understanding.

Indego Africa's work with Rwandan women has not only provided them with a source of income but has also empowered them to become leaders in their communities. The organization provides business and leadership training to the women, helping them to develop the skills needed to run their own businesses and take on leadership roles in their communities.

In addition to the Rwanda Peace Basket, Indego Africa sells a wide variety of African baskets, each with its own unique story and cultural significance. From the colorful Bolga baskets of Ghana to the intricately woven Zulu baskets of South Africa, these handmade baskets are not only beautiful but also serve as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Africa.

One of the things that make African baskets so special is the fact that they are handmade using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. Each basket is unique and tells its own story, reflecting the skill and creativity of the artisan who made it.

In a world where mass-produced goods dominate the market, African baskets offer a refreshing alternative – one that celebrates tradition, craftsmanship, and community. By supporting organizations like Indego Africa, we can help to empower women artisans and preserve the cultural heritage of Africa.

In conclusion, Indego Africa's Rwanda Peace Basket is just one example of a beautiful handmade basket from Africa that is both functional and decorative. African baskets come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and are made from a range of materials, including grasses, fibers, and recycled materials. The Rwanda Peace Basket, in particular, represents the journey of healing and reconciliation that the country has undergone since the genocide and serves as a symbol of hope for a brighter future. By supporting organizations like Indego Africa, we can help to empower women artisans and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Africa for generations to come.