A craft practitioner from Seychelles is undergoing specialised training in fibre processing at the Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI) in Kenya.
The training forms part of a collaboration facilitated by the COMESA Federation of Women in Business. The partnership follows a memorandum of understanding signed in 2024 between the federation’s Seychelles chapter and KIRDI.
Ms Dine, who works with natural materials in craft production, is spending 10 days at the institute. The programme focuses on adding value to natural fibres, particularly sisal and banana fibre.
According to KIRDI, the training covers the full production process.
First, the programme focuses on fibre extraction using decortication technology. Participants then learn processing methods. These include pretreatment, washing, bleaching, dyeing, rinsing, finishing and drying. The course also covers both natural and synthetic dyeing techniques.
Finally, the training moves to product creation. This stage involves developing basketry and other craft items using the processed fibres.
During the visit, Ms Juliette Dine met the Acting Director-General of KIRDI, Kelvin Khisa.
Dr Khisa assured her of the institute’s support during the training period.
KIRDI said the programme aims to strengthen skills in natural fibre processing and handicraft production.
The collaboration is expected to support knowledge exchange between Seychelles and Kenya in craft and fibre processing industries.