This archive report was first published on 12 October 2019.
Published on October 12, 2019, a nostalgic trend has been revived in the form of handwoven footballs for children.
For those who grew up in the 80s and 90s, mpira za jualaa (polythene paper balls) were a staple of neighborhood play. Made from layers of polythene paper strapped together with sisal rope, these balls were kicked around until they were dirty and tattered.
However, with the introduction of leather and plastic balls, and the ban on polythene paper, these nostalgic balls have largely disappeared.
But one businessman, Ntakuritimana Evariste, has brought back the memories with his unique handwoven footballs.
According to Evariste, the idea for these balls was born 19 years ago in Rwanda, where he was living at the time. A mzungu friend had gifted him a leather football, which soon became damaged from wear and tear.
Undeterred, Evariste patched the ball back together, using his creativity to weave different materials into a functional ball.
Today, Evariste's handwoven footballs come in two types: one made from a rubber tube covered with clothing and intertwined with thread, and the other made from soft polystyrene material.
“Initially, I was making them using pure polythene paper, but since they were banned I introduced tube. This is much easier since the ball’s pressure can be regulated accordingly,” Evariste said.
The tube-type football retails between Sh400 and Sh2000, depending on its size, while the polystyrene-type retails between Sh100 and Sh500, also depending on its size.
