Project Report
| Sep 29, 2026
Little boys dance like grown men.
By Karl Weyrauch | Project Leader
![Itorero Dancers]()
Itorero Dancers
When is a child too young to begin to learn about his tradition and culture? From the looks of the young man with a headband in this photo, even children just old enough to walk and follow the teacher’s lead can be a good candidate.
This fellow is participating in a traditional Rwandan dance known as “Itorero”. In the ancient Kingdom of Rwanda, it was an important part of the training of the king’s protectors. It showcases agility, bravery and strength.
The white headdresses of the other young men portray lion’s mane, a token of legendary power.
Thank you for your support for the performing arts in the community of Cyaruzinge, whose ancestors once performed for Rwandan kings. Today, they perform for large audiences who are thrilled again by these ancient traditions - especially when performed so skillfully by the smallest dancers in the troupe.
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Jun 1, 2026
Ancient Pottery Brings Modern Profits
By Karl Weyrauch | Project Leader
![Traditional Clay Pots]()
Traditional Clay Pots
The potters in Cyaruzinge practice the ancient art of building hand-crafted pots without a potter’s wheel using techniques they learned from their parents. Since the beginning of Rwandan society thousands of years ago, the potters have been admired for their skill with something as simple and ordinary as clay.
They dig it from deposits along the riverbanks and carry it on their backs to their home workshops, where they meticulously shape and decorate it by hand into beautiful works of art. The pile of sticks in the background will be set afire, and the pots will bake until hard and sturdy so they can be used for baking beans or holding lovely houseplants.
The Amakondera Institute supports the traditional potters by helping create a market for their beautiful wares. These large vesssels make popular decorative folk art in Rwandan homes. Thank you for your support to help sustain this ancient, beautiful and practical craft!
Please join us for our July Bonus Day Fundraiser, July 15-16!
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Jan 29, 2026
Cultural Performance to Economic Opportunity
By Ayushi Rai | Project Leader
![A cultural dance performance]()
A cultural dance performance
The Amakondera Player's performances continue to be a win-win. They are drawing visitors to the community and creating real opportunities for local families to sell their products and services.
This quarter brought some exciting wins - A generous visitor from Uganda donated $200 to support the group's work. The Amakondera Players even got a booking - a paying gig at a local wedding. Some of the performers even rent out their costumes as party attire when they are not performing themselves.
Their cultural performances are about celebration and unity. Now, they are opening actual income doors for families. As the word spreads about the group's talent, more paid opportunities like this wedding booking should follow. It's a beautiful example of culture creating economic opportunity.
Thank you for your constant support.
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