Jua Kali operators to exhibit wares in Rwanda

Jua Kali artisans at Kibuye Jua Kali stalls on October 22, 2014. MPs have asked the Treasury to allocate Sh15 billion to complete stalled projects. FILE PHOTO | TOM OTIENO | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • They will exhibit baskets, women’s accessories, traditional attire, paintings, sculptured soapstone, clay pots and stools.
  • The now famous Maasai market in Nairobi has recently opened branches in other parts of the country, with plans underway to have it rotate across East Africa.

The Jua Kali Association and the Association of Women Entrepreneurs will be holding an exhibition in Rwanda to promote, market and sell goods from the informal sector.

The former will select the individuals to take part in the event scheduled for December 1 to 7.

“The exhibition is among many that we are planning to help individuals in the sector showcase wares that are culture-inspired.

‘‘We hope that the exposure will help to promote the market,” Ms Jane Munyau, the Jua Kali Association’s regional coordinator said on Thursday.

They will exhibit baskets, women’s accessories, traditional attire, paintings, sculptured soapstone, clay pots and stools.

“The market accommodates anyone with a talent of making something. Artists make goods using their own products, and we help them to sell the items locally and internationally during trade exhibitions,” Ms Munyau said.

The now famous Maasai market in Nairobi has recently opened branches in other parts of the country, with plans underway to have it rotate across East Africa.

According to Ms Munyau, the initiative was mooted to boost talent in the region.

“Kenya is blessed with very talented people who just need a platform where they can be seen and heard.

‘‘I am glad that the Jua Kali Association came up with the market which also helps in preserving our tradition,” she added.