A Rwandan artisan at work, engaging in a traditional weaving or crafting activity—most likely the making of items such as mats (imikeka), baskets (uduseke/ibiseke), or possibly thatching material for traditional roofing.
🧶 Main Subject:
The woman is sitting on a woven mat (possibly an umukeka), made from natural plant fibers like papyrus or reeds.
She is skillfully weaving or tying long stalks, likely grass or straw—possibly sedge grass or banana fiber, commonly used in Rwandan crafts.
Her focused posture and traditional method reflect a continuation of indigenous knowledge and craftsmanship.
🪑 Cultural Context:
The activity, environment, and products are tied to Rwandan heritage and the agaciro (dignity) of handmade traditions.
This type of work often occurs in cooperatives, cultural centers, or during community workshops that aim to preserve and promote traditional knowledge—especially among women artisans.
🎯 Possible Items Being Crafted:
Umukeka – woven floor mats, used in homes or for seating.
Ibiseke / Udutebe – woven baskets or trays for food.
Imisambi – stalk bundles used in roof thatching or traditional fencing.