From the Field: Rwanda

This month, our team spent time on the ground in Rwanda, visiting communities and partners involved in Sundara’s soap projects.

Being present in the places where this work happens offers a powerful reminder of why access to hygiene matters. In communities where soap was once limited or unavailable, families are now able to practise safe, dignified handwashing as part of daily life. The impact is visible in health, confidence, and routine.

Soap may seem simple, but its effects are far-reaching.

More Than Access

During our visit, one of the women who gained employment as a soap-maker shared that being part of this work has empowered her to educate others in her community about the importance of hygiene.

For her, this project is not only about producing soap. It is about knowledge, leadership, and pride in contributing to healthier outcomes for families around her. Stories like hers reflect the broader impact of this work, where women are not only participants, but leaders of change.

Women at the Centre

Sundara’s model is built around more than distribution. Soap production creates fair-wage employment for women, providing income, stability, and greater security for themselves and their families.

Many women shared that this financial independence has strengthened their health, confidence, and sense of possibility. These benefits extend beyond individual households, contributing to stronger families and more resilient communities.

The Communities

For many, having consistent access to soap supports better health and allows children to focus on what matters most: learning, playing, and spending time with friends. Improved hygiene helps reduce illness-related absences and supports safer school environments.

These changes shape daily life in meaningful ways, helping children build habits that support long-term wellbeing.

Lasting Change

The impact of this work continues long after a single distribution. Access to soap supports healthier daily practices, while employment opportunities support long-term wellbeing and economic stability.

Together, these elements create ripple effects that reach across communities, reinforcing the idea that hygiene is not just about prevention, but about dignity, opportunity, and empowerment.

We are grateful to Kandaka and the communities who welcomed us, and to the supporters who make this work possible, with special thanks to Soapbox.