Through Her Eyes: The Meaning of Motherhood in Rwanda
“Through Her Eyes: The Meaning of Motherhood in Rwanda” tells the story of young girls who became mothers before their time. It is a journey into their courage, love, and resilience—a glimpse into hearts that nurture life while carrying the weight of society’s judgment. In their hands, motherhood is both fragile and fierce, a testament to strength born from hardship and devotion that knows no age.
What does it truly mean to be a mother? This question has guided my journey. Growing up in an orphanage, I never had the chance to meet my own mother. In August 2019, reflecting on the experiences I had missed, I set out to explore the real meaning of motherhood. This initiative is part of a broader project on women and motherhood, where I spoke with mothers of all kinds: single mothers, young mothers, experienced mothers, grandmothers, and women who have chosen not to have children.
Of particular significance were single mothers, who in Rwandan society have historically faced ostracism and stigma. They are often judged, marginalized, and viewed as having rejected cultural norms, especially when they have a child outside of marriage. Traditionally, a woman’s value was measured by the dowry her husband provided, and unwed mothers were perceived as “worthless” or dishonored. Many faced rejection, isolation, and even violence—sent away to remote islands, exiled to other villages, or worse.
Today, single mothers continue to face prejudice and hardship. Families and communities often view them as burdens, and young mothers are vulnerable to exploitation. Economic pressures, compounded by crises such as the coronavirus pandemic, exacerbate these challenges, forcing many to rely on insufficient support from partners or family members. Despite these obstacles, these women show resilience, courage, and love for their children.
This photo essay captures the intimate lives of single mothers in Rwanda, accompanied by their own words about motherhood:
Tuyisenge Therèsé, who became a mother at just 14 while still in primary school, describes motherhood as being like a God, teacher, and hero. Her son is now eight years old, and she balances the responsibilities of raising him while navigating the judgment of her peers and community.
Afissa Usanase, a 17-year-old mother of a two-month-old baby, shares that being a mother is simply “having a child”—a profound, life-changing responsibility at such a young age.
Elenestine Uwamahoro, a 22-year-old university student with a three-month-old infant, reflects that motherhood is “accepting the responsibility of taking care of a little one”, a sentiment that underscores the dedication and maturity required to nurture life while pursuing her education.
Other stories from the Motherhood Project include Aline Murara Tuyisenge, who balances her love for her daughters with joy and patience, Ishimwe Devota (Devo Queen), managing her own bar while raising her daughter, Jeanne Uwizeye, navigating societal pressures while raising her son and her brother’s children, and Melanie Nyiraninda, who teaches her daughters about love, respect, and care through small daily gestures.
These portraits illuminate the multifaceted reality of motherhood in Rwanda. Beyond nurturing and care, mothers navigate social stigma, economic hardship, and personal ambition, yet they demonstrate resilience, creativity, and unwavering love. This project celebrates their strength, offering insight into the diverse ways motherhood is lived, felt, and expressed.
Through this essay, I hope to educate and inspire, challenging stereotypes about single mothers and highlighting the profound courage and dignity inherent in motherhood, regardless of circumstance. Each story is a testament to the love, sacrifice, and resilience that define mothers in Rwanda today.
