Kasigau Basket Weavers

Social enterprise Kasigau Basket Weavers works with talented artisan women handcrafting natural baskets in Kenya. The women, who are between the ages of 25 and 90, come together and collaborate in units, which leads to increased integration into the community and opportunities for them to creatively exchange ideas and advice. The income the artisans earn by creating these baskets supports their household earnings, which are usually generated from agriculture and farming. Women can feel empowered, use their voices, and participate in essential decision-making processes at home and in the community at-large.

These sustainable baskets are handmade using sisal leaves. Kenya is the world’s third-largest producer of the sisal crop, which is originally from Mexico. While several artisans may grow sisal on their farms, many also supplement harvests with locally purchased sisal, as the local elephant population relies on the crop for food. Artisans carefully cut and collect the sisal leaves, drain the liquid from the leaves, extract and weave the fibers, and dye the strands with natural dyes for vibrant colors. After the dyed strands have had time to dry, an artisan will weave them into the basket’s frame and body. The baskets are customized according to the design, and each is made following an intricate cultural technique passed down across generations.