Makuti
Makuti are bunches weaved leaves from a coconut plant caked Mnazi in Swahili. They are mostly found in coastal region of Kenya. Makuti roofs are typical roofs in Kenya, which consist of the makuti commonly used on site, i.e. dried and linked palm leaves, which have to be repaired after about 6 years.
The production of Makuti roofs is a widespread source of income, since the roofs - comparable to our thatched roofs - are often used in Kenya for huts, houses and hotels because the air can circulate very well underneath. Since we at Chanzo Kenya e.V. would like to offer the people in the village of Mwandogo self-help, the idea arose to create an income, especially for women, by producing such makutis.
However, in spring 2018 it rained so heavily that there were no dried palm leaves to be found (palm leaves that still hang on the palm should not simply be separated and dried!). Thanks to a donation, dried palm leaves could be bought as a kind of starting capital for the women, and the first makutis were made and stored in a shelter. If the shelter is going to be full, contractors come and buy the makutis from them.
The women keep exact records of the number of makuti produced per person so that wages can be distributed fairly. The amount of start-up financing is always available for the purchase of new material. In order to be able to build up reserves, the Makuti group always saves a certain amount.
The Makuti project is now running independently. The group of women and men has now grown to over 40 people. In January 2019 Gregory Kasenge visited the village and in consultation with us and the village officials, he has bought material for a fence and pesticides. This fence shall protect against theft and pesticides as protection against vermin infestation. Both measures are necessary to ensure the continued existence of this project.
This project 2 is definitely the beginning of a change. The achievement of the 17 goals of the UN, also abbreviated to SGD, (Sustainable Development Goals) are one main focus in our planning. With the Makuti project we are getting one step closer to the first goal - no poverty. But this is just a start.
