I have always enjoyed photographing people working, and purchasing tools when traveling or living abroad. As I have learned over my career more about the work women do in Africa, I now focus my camera a lot more on work that women do - which is a lot! Women are responsible for about 70% of the agricultural production in Africa. They are also the carriers of everything and everyone. The sling across the forehead was new to me, but the bowl / basket on top of the head was just as irresistible an iconic photograph in the Congo in 2014 as it was when I first arrived in Africa (Senegal) in 1977.
Here are some of the best photos of mine and Steve's (thanks for the thumb drive!). Steve's additions to the cassiterite washing will make that storyboard improved, too.
Here are some of the best photos of mine and Steve's (thanks for the thumb drive!). Steve's additions to the cassiterite washing will make that storyboard improved, too.
Women in skilled work
These women run a cooperative making bags (see the white muslin to the right of the sewing machines) for use in the industrial copper mining in Katanga province. That guaranteed income allows them to do tailoring (see dress models on the wall at the top) and make gift items, such as the bags on the table on the left. We gave them plenty of business!
School - This one provides day-care through primary school - the first step for any girl planning to get a job with a skill - and essential for mothers working in skilled jobs, as well, as western women know well.
Two girls (and a boy and a mom) walking to school in their blue and white uniforms.
Schoolgirls in Fungurume village, Katanga province, DRC.
Children's work is learning at school.
Children's work is learning at school.
Women Leaders
The village head of Fungurume is a woman, shown here preparing to brief our team.
The Minister of Mines in South Kivu prepares for a visit to the gold mine at Nyamurhale with the wife of the Mwami (King) of the district. She climbed right up the hills with those of us in hiking clothes / boots, and then gave a speech involving commitment to conflict-free minerals trade.
Those who have paid attention to the DRCongo for the past 20 years cannot help but wonder what burdens the women carry from the extremely high levels of rape, involving its use as a weapon of war by armed groups, and leading to most horrific stories. This sign translates: All Together Against Rape. It is in downtown Bukavu.