State pledges to link Murang’a basket weavers to markets

Basket weavers from Kigumo in Murang’a are set to benefit from the venture with the government promising to source for the market for the product both locally and internationally.

The weavers, mainly comprised of the elderly women, turned to the venture as a source of livelihood but securing the market has been their biggest challenge. Simon Chelugui, Cabinet secretary for Co-operatives and MSMEs said his ministry will use the digital platforms to help market the baskets so as to boost sales. He said digital marketing is more effective due to its vast outreach and will help do away with middle men.

Chelugui noted that his ministry in collaboration with that of Information Communication and Technology and the ministry of trade are crafting several marketing apps which will be used to advertise the products made locally. Speaking during a fundraiser event for the weavers in Kigumo, the CS said the government is keen to promote and support those doing artisan work.

Better prices

“The baskets woven by these women are of good quality and with proper marketing they can fetch better prices and this will mean higher returns for them” said Chelughui. “I encourage the weavers to form a co-operative as this will enable them to get government funding and other services to improve their business” he added.

Nominated Senator Veronica Maina who had organised the fundraiser, said weaving is an alternative source of income for the elderly women who can no longer go out to do menial jobs.. “We want these baskets to be branded so that when they are taken to the market they will be identified as products from Murang’a” she remarked.