This archive report was first published on 6 January 2020.
On a chilly morning in Sigot village, Mosop, Nandi County, a group of young and elderly women are busy making traditional items, including baskets, pots, and ropes. Their efforts are not only a way to preserve a dying artistic culture but also a means to generate a steady income.
The Kolangei women group, formed in 2014, has been working tirelessly to transform their livelihoods. The group's members, including Rebecca Rotich, regret that the current generation lacks the artistic know-how of pottery, basketry, and weaving mats.
"In the past, we used to buy from traders who brought these baskets from as far as Turkana and Kakamega counties, but they were expensive. But since we realised that there is demand for these traditional products, we decided to venture into this profitable business," Rebecca Rotich notes.
The group's products, including pots made from clay and ropes made from recycled manila polythene bags, have seen a sharp increase in demand over the past two years. In a single day, one member can weave up to 40 baskets, with the group earning between Sh100,000 and Sh150,000 monthly.
Through this project, the group has generated income to meet their daily needs and reduce over-reliance on their spouses. The high season for their business is between October and January, due to social events.
Two elderly women, Grace Bor (92) and Esther Belio (94), have taken it upon themselves to pass on their knowledge to the younger generation. They have been teaching the younger women how to make traditional items, such as baskets and pots, to save the once-revered culture and conserve the environment.
"I have taught many women this art. I am happy that most of them are taking up these skills to support their families," says Ms Bor.
Despite facing challenges such as a lack of constant market and access to credit facilities, the group remains determined to keep the tradition alive.
