Kinyambu Carvers Cooperative

Kinyambu is a small community about half way between the capital of Nairobi and the coastal city of Mombassa. The people who live in this community in the heart of Ukambani (land of the Akamba) can look to the south on a clear day and see Mount Kilimajaro. Maize, pulse crops, bananas and mangoes are the main products of the mainly agricultural economy, though carving is another source of income for some. The Akamba people are known for their skill carving rosewood and ebony. Both of these woods share a number of similarities: both have a dark core which is surrounded by a thick pale yellow outer ring, both can survive in harsh conditions with little water and extreme heat and both are exceptionally hard.

The carvers that we work with in Kinyambu work co-operatively in their workshop - a large tree along the side of the highway. Work is assigned according to ability and profits are shared. Younger carvers are encouraged to hone their skills under the watchful eyes of the more skilled ones. Carving is usually a supplement to farming income so little is done during the harvest time. These cooperative specialize in people. They have achieved such a level of skill that you would swear that some of their creations might just walk away on you.