Tabaka: Artisans in the soapstone industry in Tabaka ward, South Mogirango Constituency, Kisii County are experiencing an economic boost after a sculpture center in the area won a multimillion contract to supply statue artifacts to a neighboring country.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project, which involves sculpting statues up to 16 feet tall and weighing between 350 kg and two tons, has generated enthusiasm as it is the first of its kind in the area. Daniel Ombasa Apepo, the Director of Kisac Sculpture Centre located at Nyabigege shopping centre, stated that the contract has significantly benefited the artisans economically.
Ombasa added that the project, which began a month ago, has added value to the organization, which was recently awarded for outstanding mineral value addition during a ceremony organized by the state Department of Mining under the Ministry for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs.
The project has shifted the focus from creating smaller pieces for export to crafting large statues that appear to represent different communities of South Sudan, potentially destined for a museum. With a target of producing 53 statues within six months, the center has mobilized a team of the best artisans in the area to undertake the task.
Ombasa emphasized the center’s mandate to empower Kenyan artisans by showcasing their crafts globally and promoting local culture. He appealed to the government to engage in similar contracts, highlighting the project’s ability to provide jobs for many residents, with the lead carver being a seasoned artisan in the industry.
The initiative ensures that Kenya is not merely exporting precious rock but is also retaining it to attract tourists, thereby encouraging more people to venture into the industry. The number of employees at the center has increased from the usual 100 to 150, with talented experts sourced from the local community who earn their livelihood through chiseling, carving, sanding, or painting.
Ombasa estimates that at least 10 tonnes of soapstone rock will be used by the end of the project but assures that the raw material is sufficient for future generations. He highlighted Kenya’s mineral wealth and called for innovation and creativity to utilize these resources for tourism.
Acknowledging the role of the Internet and Artificial Intelligence in modern businesses, Ombasa urged young entrepreneurs to develop innovative ideas through these platforms to attract global clients.
Evelyn Ombasa, an artisan, shared that she had never seen the sculpting of such massive statues since joining the soapstone industry in 2004. She expressed how the industry has been her source of livelihood and urged the government to create a conducive environment for industries to thrive.
The lead artisan, Thomas Mokaya, with 25 years of experience, noted that this was the first large-scale project at Kisac. He mentioned other sculptures he had crafted, including those displayed in county government offices.
