"Annika's Gang" Visit the Negev

by Margret Ellwanger

TEL SHEVA, Israel — A group of German, Indian, Swedish and Canadian diplomats visited Mariam Abu Rkeek's "Desert Daughter" production work shop where she makes cosmetic and medicinal soaps, lotions and oils in the spirit and wisdom of Bedouin tradition. The ladies enjoyed a Bedouin lunch provided by two local Bedouin women who benefited directly by catering the meal. While sitting in an authentic Bedouin tent and enjoying the quiet peacefulness of the desert, Mariam answered questions about life in the Negev and her feelings about being a strong woman in a challenging environment.

The attentiveness of the visitors resulted in a donation for much needed shelving to better display products for sale. Since forPEACE affectionately referred to this group as "Annika's Gang" while making arrangements for the visit, it seemed appropriate that the shelves will be purchased from Sweden's Ikea store in Netanya.

ForPEACE would like to thank Annika's Gang for their generous contribution. It was a pleasure to introduce them to Desert Daughter and Sidreh, our Bedouin Partners in the Negev.