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WEAVING DREAMS INTO REALITY: PETER RUTHA’S ARTISANAL VIKOIS

In the vibrant Mathare North area 1, is Peter Rutha, a skilled entrepreneur specializing in weaving scarves, famously known as “Vikois.” Peter’s craftsmanship extends beyond scarves, forming the basis for a range of customized apparel such as shirts, shorts, dresses, as well as functional items like table mats, curtains, floor mats, door mats, and bedcovers. To create these unique pieces, Peter diligently sources his raw materials which are assorted colored cotton yarn sourced from the Sunflag Factory located in the Industrial Area.

Peter Rutha at his workshop in Mathare North Area 1

With a keen eye for quality and sustainability, Peter employs three permanent staff members who actively contribute to the weaving process. The weaving looms, essential tools in his trade, are locally crafted by skilled carpenters based in Nairobi County, underscoring the community-oriented nature of his business.

Peter’s market outreach extends to various locations, catering to a diverse clientele. He supplies Vikois to Asian shops in Nairobi’s Central Business District and collaborates with resellers at the Maasai Market, Mombasa, Malindi, Tanzania, and South Africa. His commitment to skill development is evident in his training initiatives, where he actively seeks out youths interested in learning the art of weaving, offering them not just knowledge but also employment opportunities.

Peter’s employees at work

A Glimpse into the Origin of Cotton Yarn in Kenya:

Cotton yarn, a vital raw material in Peter Rutha’s craft, has a rich history in Kenya. The cultivation of cotton in the country dates back to early colonial times when British settlers introduced the crop. Over the years, cotton farming became a significant economic activity, contributing to both local consumption and export.

The Sunflag Factory at the Industrial Area plays a pivotal role in sustaining the availability of quality cotton yarn. Established with the aim of promoting the textile industry in Kenya, the factory has been a reliable source for raw materials, supporting local artisans like Peter in their endeavors.

The Journey from Raw Material to Finished Product:

The transformation of cotton fibers into the vibrant, assorted colored yarns used by Peter is a meticulous process. Cotton fibers undergo ginning, a process that separates the seeds from the fibers. The cleaned cotton fibers are then spun into yarn using specialized machinery, resulting in the high-quality material that forms the basis of Peter Rutha’s distinctive Vikois. For those intrigued by the art of weaving or interested in acquiring these unique creations, Peter Rutha’s workshop in Mathare North Area 1 is the ideal place to explore. For inquiries or purchases, feel free to contact him at 0723250402.

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