
EMPOWERING WOMEN


Overcoming Barriers
In 2011, we launched the Enkiteng sewing program in Enoosaen – a remote Maasai village in Transmara District, Kenya. In 2012, we expanded the program to Kamakwa near Nyeri.
Women in our Enkiteng Program learn how to sew first by making our design patented Enkiteng Bags which are re-usable sustainable cloth multipurpose bags. The simple rectangular design is easy for the seamstresses to learn rather quickly, which gives them confidence and provides a sustainable income.
Enkiteng bags were originally designed to serve as eco-friendly gift wrapping bags, but over the years they have been on the market, they have become SEW much more. They are being used as travel bags, storage bags, shoe and purse dust bags, and more!
The concept first originated from our founder’s spouse, who being either lazy or – as he likes to say – environmentally friendly, insisted on wrapping all presents in pillowcases. Inspired by this (or tired of all the missing pillow cases around the holidays), founders Jan Ito and Lianne Aoyagi created a design using ribbon and remnants from quilting supplies. Since the early 2000’s, the bags have been in use between family and friends with many compliments and people asking, “where can I get these?”
Because of the very simple design, low cost, and ease of transportability, the founders of Seeds to Sew felt that this was a perfect project to pilot a basic sewing program. We are very encouraged with the results and the positive impact it has already made for the women involved!
Achieving Independence
As the seamstresses become more confident, they start using locally sourced fabric (called Kitenge) that they purchase on the Kenyan market. This is a very important step in the program as they
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support their local economy
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become more confident (making an investment)
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learn small business skills (investment and profit, product development)
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learn how to sew other things such as knapsacks, tote bags, wrap-skirts, and other products
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learn how to sew school uniforms that they can sell in Kenya, becoming independent from our program

