Machakos, Kenya
The Yata South Weavers group was started back in 1988 as a
small workshop providing an income to women in the area through
the production of local crafts. It has grown to be one of the
largest communities of sisal weavers in Kenya, employing over
1000 women and exporting to both national and international markets.
The organization is run by the weavers themselves, providing a
model for a self-sustaining business with embedded leadership.
The facilities, located over an hour outside of Nairobi,
are a production point for numerous designs of bags and
baskets which are hand-woven by the women from sisal, a
strong and durable natural plant material.
The Yata South women were delighted to host visitors.
They gave us a thorough tour of their workshop, explaining
the methods and skills behind their beautiful handbags and baskets.
