A day at The Roots Project Centre
The women of The Roots Project represent a wide range of cultures and experiences. The members bring the unique styles and traditions of their tribes and learn new techniques from each other. Through working side by side, sharing their children and their lives, the women form personal relationships crossing tribal boundaries. They provide social and emotional support to each other and are mutually invested in the Roots’ success.
The Centre provides an opportunity for the women to earn an income while improving their skills and caring for their children. Each day the Centre provides service, without which many of the women would not be able to work.
$30 for medical treatment
$60 provides a monthly food packet for each woman
$120 educates a child for one year
Relocation of The Roots Project Centre
The Centre has been moved to a new location, Women’s Junior Compound Plot 32, Hai Neem, Juba, South Sudan
Construction of the original The Roots Project Centre began in December 2009 and funding was received in March 2010 from the Embassy of France in Sudan covering about half the cost of construction. During that period the women continued producing beadwork, managed the construction and purchased and managed building materials. The Roots Project held numerous fundraisers and sales to complete the centre and provide income to the women. Individuals donors also ensured that activities and construction continued. The main buildings were completed in September 2010 and supplemented by funding from the Tides Foundation which covered the cost of the Kid’s Tukul (children’s area) and electrification in February 2011. In March 2013, the roof above the office and shop collapsed following torrential rain and wind (no one was injured) and reconstructed by September 2013 with funding from UNESCO, sales, donations from well-wishers and generosity of the UNMISS Engineering section who rebuilt the roof. During the period of civil war beginning in 2015, the Centre has had to move to its new location.
Events at The Roots Project Centre
The Roots Project Centre held events to raise funds and promote cultural awareness, people’s empowerment, peace and unity. In addition to the Roots Jams, the centre has hosted fashion shows, live theatre and art exhibitions. The centre has held sales promoting other local artists and extends its facilities for children in the communities to have a safe place to learn and play.
