This archive report was first published on 22 May 2020.
On May 22, 2020, Oliver 'Xbizi' Kateya, the founder of Umoja Talanta, launched an initiative to distribute stylish face masks to young people in Mathare and Umoja estates.
The masks, which bear the logo of either Umoja Talanta or Mathare Talanta, are designed to encourage young people to wear them and protect themselves and others from the COVID-19 virus.
Oliver, who is also a performing artist, came up with the idea after realizing that many young people in the area did not like wearing face masks.
He commissioned the design and branding of 70 masks, which were distributed to young people in the area. The masks were given out for free to those who could not afford them, while those who wanted to buy them could do so at Sh150.
However, Oliver faced a challenge in distributing the masks, as many people wanted them but could not afford to buy them. He also expressed concern that the masks were being shared among many people, which could be dangerous in densely populated areas like the slums.
Despite the challenges, Oliver is happy with the response from the young people, who have been wearing the masks even when there are no police around. He hopes to distribute about 500 more masks within the next two months.
Umoja Talanta, which aims to keep young people engaged through sports and art activities, has been organizing events in Mathare and Umoja estates for over five years. The organization has also been offering mentorship in primary schools in Mathare slums and has trained eight acrobats and dancers who are currently on contract in China.
