Rwanda's Myth of Origin

Rwanda's myth of origin tells us of a woman who enjoyed a blessed life in heaven, but she longed for a child.  She went to god to ask for a child; he offered to provide her a family if she promised to never share the means by which she obtained the baby.  He then instructed to gather offerings of milk, cows, and honey.  He gave her a clay baby and told her to plant it in a bowl of milk; nine months later, she gave birth to a healthy, beautiful child.  Her sister, envious, tricked the woman into sharing the secret.  Once god discovered the violation, he sent both women to earth whereupon they had to work and raise their children without the easiness heaven afforded.  As god observed them, he noticed how hard the women worked and how tolerant they were of one another.  So, he eased their burden and provided them stories and an abundant harvest to sustain their journey on earth.  From them, the people of Rwanda descended.

Rwanda is a land steeped in stories.  On our journey, we will listen.  We will work to gather stories. And, we will adhere to the promises we make to honor those who host us as we enjoy the land of 1,000 hills.

Before we arrive in Rwanda, we will first focus in East Africa's triple heritage with a stay in Zanzibar.  East Africa is beautiful, diverse, and vibrant.  Our summer study, with stays in two very different communities, will introduce students to the powerful breadth of the bright continent!