mwangatu women

Thirty years ago, AIDS was a mysterious disease that was an almost certain death sentence.  Those known to have it (or to even be HIV positive) were shunned by most of society.  Education is still important, but research - mostly done in Africa - has provided medications that allow people to live relatively healthy and productive lives.  In Kenya four women have a business called Mwangatu, which means “Light of Hope” in Swahili.  They are overcoming the stigma of HIV by building their business and using it as a vehicle for education.  The Red Bead in each of their products calls for solidarity, education and compassion for those dealing with AIDS/HIV.