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5/01/2006
Rwandan Essential Oils Program Offers Healing KIGALI, Rwanda, May 1 /Christian Newswire/ -- Ikirezi Natural Products is an emerging agribusiness that is pioneering the production of high quality essential oils in Rwanda, The Land of a Thousand Hills. Ikirezi, meaning “precious pearl” in the local dialect, partners with small farmers in Rwanda to harvest geranium leaves for oil distillation. This program, started with funding and support by World Relief, offers more than just a quality product, it offers healing to a nation undergoing restoration from the horrific events of 1994. World Relief Rwanda’s objective is to diversify Rwandan cash crops and market and sell these valuable oils in the global marketplace. The aim is to help Rwandan small farmers increase their base economic level in a self-sufficient and sustainable way. In doing so, the project creates greater economic opportunities for very poor and vulnerable rural people. As Rwanda and the world remembers the 100 days of genocide that occurred between April and June of 1994, many are now able to testify to the transformation that has taken place since that time. Outside groups, organizations and countries have helped Rwanda in the process of stabilization and restoration, but Ikirezi was born and driven by a Rwandan, Nicolas Hitimana. Although he and his wife escaped to Europe during the genocide, the reality of what occurred scarred both of them deeply. After completing agricultural and community development studies in the United Kingdom, Nicholas and his family decided to return to Rwanda and help restore the people and their land. Ikirezi primarily works with widows and orphans in a holistic effort to restore their dignity, improve their livelihoods, and rebuild their communities. Ikirezi partners with three associations/cooperatives comprised of 150 farmers. New associations and cooperatives will be added as the operation continues to expand. Widows and orphans comprise 94% of current members, as Ikirezi is dedicated to working in partnership with Rwanda’s poorest and most vulnerable populations. Several governmental and private groups help fund Ikirezi, including USAID, Africa Development Foundation and Agribusiness in Sustainable Natural African Plant Products (ASNAPP). For more information on Ikirezi Natural Products, visit www.ikirezi.com . In the United States and 24 countries around the world, World Relief works with local churches in creating sustainable solutions that help the desperately poor in the name of Jesus Christ. World Relief's programs include disaster relief, refugee and immigrant assistance, AIDS ministries, community health programs, agricultural development, and community banking.
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