From Pastries to Policies
A Sweet Ritual: Discovering Local Tastes
Fridays have developed a sweet ritual here in Kigali. After a long week at Rwanda Bridges to Justice (RBJ), a colleague and I make a customary stop at a bakery. An establishment that was once owned by the current director of RBJ. Each visit contains new cake and pastry recipes that kickstart the weekend with pleasant momentum.
A more somber note occurred early in the week. A friend from the local tennis club, who is a ball boy there, had developed an alarming cyst on his hand due to an untreated injury. As someone without health insurance, he faced difficulties in obtaining the necessary medical attention. We immediately arranged for him to visit a local clinic. The comprehensive treatment - cyst removal, deep cleaning, consultation, and medication - totaled $60. Compared to the steep healthcare costs for uninsured individuals in the U.S., it felt humbling to witness firsthand the financial disparities in accessing necessary medical care. I took a moment to dive deeper into Rwanda's economic reality, learning that salaries in Kigali range between $2,000 to $38,000 annually, with the upper echelon largely occupied by CEOs and high-profile individuals.
Cultural Conversations and Legal Advocacy
Earlier this week, we convened for a much-anticipated UPR roundtable. A deep discussion ensued, focusing on ways to enhance the legal mechanisms and human rights in Rwanda. Key recommendations were made to the Ministry of Justice, the Bar Association, the Investigation Bureau, the Judiciary, Civil Society Organizations, and other stakeholders. It was inspiring to participate in such crucial discussions and to see the collective dedication to the betterment of Rwanda's legal framework.
During one of our lunches, I had the pleasure of conversing with local Rwandans and colleagues about the social fabric of Kigali. We touched on topics such as the role of cooking in men's lives, the generational shifts in domestic duties, and the vital role househelpers play. These individuals, typically earning around $30 a month, serve as the backbone of many households. They prepare meals, clean, take care of the children, and ensure the overall smooth running of the house. These conversations provided me with a more nuanced understanding of the day-to-day life in Kigali, further enriching my internship experience.
So far, this journey has been an education not just in law, but also in the complexity of the human condition. Amidst the legal discussions and policy implications, I am reminded of the people at the heart of our work. Whether it’s the joy of a new pastry, the concern over a friend's health, or the diligence of a househelper - it's these everyday realities that ultimately shape the rules, regulations, and systems we strive to better. It's been an insightful and humbling journey so far, and I look forward to more enriching experiences as my time in Kigali continues.