This archive report was first published on 2 June 2021.
June 2, 2021, marked a significant milestone for women in Mwingi West Constituency, as they embarked on a journey of economic empowerment through basketry and soap making.
Founded by Christine Mutoni, a dedicated social entrepreneur, the Crisbel Foundation has been instrumental in providing women with the necessary skills and resources to create value-added products, such as sisal-made baskets, which are sold locally and abroad.
One of the key initiatives of the foundation is the establishment of an aloe-vera plantation, which provides raw materials for making medicated soaps for sale.
Christine Mutoni, the founder of the Crisbel Foundation, was motivated by the plight of women and young girls who had been victims of sexual abuse in Mwingi, Kitui County, and Kajiado County, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
"I decided to bring women, especially the vulnerable, orphans, widows, and young mothers together to keep them busy and most importantly create a venture for them to earn a living," she said.
Juliana Nguli, a beneficiary of the foundation's activities, expressed her gratitude for the support she has received, stating that the organization has helped her and her family to meet their basic needs.
"This Organization has really helped us as we can now afford our basic needs," Ms. Nguli noted.
As the foundation continues to empower women in Mwingi West, it is clear that their efforts are making a significant impact in the lives of those they serve.