Explore the Sonoma-Rwanda connection

A discussion of the humanitarian connection between Sonoma and Rwanda will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at Vintage House senior center.

The talk will center on the Central Africa country that is still recovering from the effects of the brutal 1994 genocide that killed 800,000 men, women and children.

In November 2019, a dozen Sonoma residents traveled to Rwanda to see the progress being made on a goodwill mission organized by Rwandan-born Sonoma philanthropist Anna Bimenyimana, the owner of Bon Marche Thrift Shop, and member of the local End World Hunger Foundation.

A key purpose of the journey was to present a contribution raised from Sonoma residents for “Gardens for Health International” to salute its work with rural families to combat childhood malnutrition in Rwanda, where 35 percent of children under 5 are malnourished and AIDS/HIV is widespread among their mothers. The group also explored three national parks that are developing responsible eco-tourism and are home to endangered animals like the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

The Sonomans’ experiences will be presented in a slide show and shared stories. The presentation will also provide information about other “local-global” connections – and how Sonoma residents can get involved. Vintage House is at 264 First St. E.