Hot greetings from Kenya!

Eve Kislov

Hello, I am Eve Kislov and I have been living and working as an EU Aid Volunteer for NGO Mondo and WEFOCO for a month now. 

My task is to strengthen the independent development of Shianda community in Western Kenya. Simply put, my goal here is to support a local Tailor Shop for six months by developing new products together with the women and men of the Tailor Shop and if possible, to find buyers for these products. 

Although I had previously received extensive training from the European Union, I was seriously amazed in the first few days by the huge crowd, how everyone are running their errands. The people were infinitely friendly and curious.

In a month, I have become part of this bustling community. Since it is a known fact that one picture says more than a thousand words, I have taken many photos which I will add to this blog post as well.

The first working days at the Tailor Shop

Meeting with colleagues in the Tailor Shop, it soon became clear that the seamstresses did not have to fill regular orders, and the sewing machines and furnishings in the Tailor Shop needed to be upgraded.

We consulted and realized that since repairing sewing machines takes time, we try to use the time as efficiently as possible and create some new products by crocheting and knitting.

The plan was not very successful. There are no handicraft classes at schools in Kenya. Primary skills come from grandparents. Another problem is that crochet hooks and needles can only be bought in specialty stores in larger cities, and unfortunately, the choice of materials are very limited. Natural materials such as wool or cotton are not available in Kenya, products can only be made from acrylic yarn.

Despite the difficulties, we started the test work and to my delight, the first crocheted and knitted hats are now completed.

Crocheting and knitting enthusiasts also in other villages

It is a great pleasure for me to visit the various villages near Shianda. Meeting with local people have been uplifting and fulfilled with laughter, local food, singing and dancing.

From one of the invitations to visit Khaunga, I developed a new handicraft workshop. I am starting to teach there once a week. To get there the only option is to ride by motorcycle for half an hour, as there is no regular bus service between the villages. For me this is definitely a new experience (and not my usual transport I'm used to), but it is fun. 

Visiting new places

On my free time, I like to go out and explore new places. In addition to the nearby villages, I have taken a bus to Kakamega and Mumias. There are only local people, no tourists on sight. They all live, work and enjoy their free time, just like me living and working in Africa.