Lekole Lepolosi get their First Product Order!

Over the last year we have been working with the incredibly talented artisans from Lekole Lepolosi to design and develop a unique range of modern Maasai beaded jewellery and leather products. In June they were thrilled to receive their very first order for their products to be stocked in a high-end boutique in Mombasa. Thanks to generous donations we were able to assist the group to complete this order by supplying the raw materials such as beads, wire, leather and cotton needed to make the first batch of products.

Over 80 women from the area came to assist the members to finish the order, which was completed to high quality standards. The group paid those members who worked to complete the order and plan to reinvest part of their profits into buying more materials for the next order, and towards the construction of a workshop.

At the moment the members usually find a nice shady tree to work under, however they are hoping to be able to build a workshop so that they can have a clean, organised environment to make their handicrafts in any weather. The group plans to construct the workshop themselves using locally available materials and only require assistance with the construction of work-benches, chairs and shelves.

The members of Lekole Lepolosi Anti Poaching group would like to express thanks to all of you who have supported the Alternative Livelihoods for Ex-Poachers program. The program has brought new hope to this community of former poachers and charcoal burners by improving already existing skills, providing access to new markets and building the organisational capacity of the group. Ashe Oleng! – or thankyou very much in Maasai!

To donate, please visit the Global Giving site.