This archive report was first published on 26 June 2020.
On June 25, 2020, a jua kali artisan's online post sparked a frenzy of orders for a multipurpose garden seat, with over 700 clients clamoring for the unique piece.
Stephen Odhiambo, the artisan behind the viral bench, has been inundated with requests since he posted the design online last week. The bench, which accommodates three people when not extended and up to six when it is, has caught the attention of many, including Deputy President William Ruto.
On Thursday, Ruto was spotted bargaining with Odhiambo and his colleague Dennis Otieno to purchase five of the garden seats for Sh150,000. The DP's willingness to negotiate and his eventual purchase of the furniture sets has left many Kenyans impressed.
"Vile nitafanya. Niko na kiwanja kubwa.. utaenda kunitengeneza ingine tatu….zikuwe tano… itakuwa elfu mia moja sio..ama niaje..ama nikupatie 120?" Ruto posed, as he negotiated the price with the two carpenters.
Despite the DP's initial offer, Odhiambo and Otieno insisted on selling the five furniture sets for Sh150,000. Ruto eventually agreed to the price, and the two carpenters were thrilled with the deal.
"I was privileged to meet and interact with Stephen Odhiambo and Dennis Otieno, two enterprising Kenyans with innovative ideas on garden furniture. I was thrilled by their cutting-edge skills and efforts," Ruto tweeted after the meeting.
