Exploring Kenya’s Timeless Kiondo Weaving Custom

Few cultural artefacts embody beauty and utility as well as the kiondo, a handwoven basket with deep cultural significance amongst Kenya’s indigenous communities. The art of weaving the kiondo is cherished by the Kikuyu, Kamba and Taita ethnic groups alike. Weavers, typically women, put a lot of thought into arranging each line and dot of fibre to tell a story, about marriage, tradition and even cosmology.

In this article, we will look at the origins, significance and enduring relevance of the Kiondo weaving practice in Kenya.

Origins and Symbolism of the Kiondo

For the Kikuyu or Agikuyu people, the spiral pattern of the kiondo is a physical representation of their worldview, similar to the Yin-Yang symbolism of the Chinese. In the spiral pattern, the string-like weft (rurigi) is seen as feminine while the warp (mirugamo) is seen as masculine since it is firm and ‘stands erect’.  The intertwining of these two elements creates a harmonious web of life.

Interestingly, this Kikuyu cosmology is also represented in a traditional group dance called the Gicukia. In the dance, men stand upright like poles with their arms placed firmly on the women’s shoulders. Thus, the men’s hands point towards a centre, while the women’s hands encircle the men’s waists. This is similar to how the rurigi wefts the mirugamo in a kiondo. The circle of dancers then rhythmically moves around as one, symbolising unity and continuity.

The stages (matiina) of a kiondo are also rich in meaning. Kikuyu weavers arrange the fibres in stages which are clearly marked and divided with stripes. Each stage, called itina, marks a particular period in the journey from birth at the navel base (mukonyo) to the death stage (gutiriha) of the basket.

The kiondo could also be completed with a stage that signifies marriage. For instance, traditionally, Kikuyu mothers would weave the baskets as their daughters grew older and finish it off at the time of marriage to present as a wedding gift. In this way, kiondo weaving was a skill passed down from mother to daughter for generations.

It is not clear when kiondo weaving began amongst the Kikuyu, but for the nearby Kamba people in the Makueni region of Kenya, it dates back to the early 1930s. Unlike the Kikuyu, who often imbued their baskets with cosmological symbolism, the Kamba focused more on practicality, creating sturdy and versatile Kiondos for various household uses.

The women would weave baskets for various purposes, including shopping, food storage and wedding gifts. However, the primary use of the baskets was for carrying fruits and vegetables during harvesting season. In cases where the baskets were used for storing water, they would be padded with clay to prevent leakage. Kamba women wove baskets as they sat together, exchanging tales and wisdom. This points to the communal aspect of the custom.

The Kiondo Weaving Process

The making of a Kiondo is a very meticulous and time-consuming process that demands a good level of skill and patience. The baskets are primarily made from sisal fibres, which are extracted from the crushed leaves of the Agave sisalana plant. After the fibres are stripped and sun-dried, they are dyed using natural pigments made from plants and minerals. The dyes typically include earthy tones though there are often splashes of more vibrant hues too.

The weaving process itself can then begin after the dyed fibres are rolled into threads. The fibres are skilfully interlaced to create elaborate patterns using traditional techniques. The intricacy of the patterns demonstrates the weaver’s skill level. It can take up to two days to weave an entire basket, depending on its size and complexity.

Sisal fibres are very strong, allowing for the durability of the baskets. However, in recent years, materials like cotton and plastic have also been incorporated into the weaving of kiondos. Some modern kiondos may even include leather straps or linings to add a touch of luxury.

The Enduring Relevance of Kiondos

Nowadays, kiondo baskets are no longer just a traditional artefact as they have left Kenya’s shores. They are now highly sought after by collectors and tourists from around the world. This presents both advantages and challenges.

On the one hand, artisans now have access to international markets, with brands like Mifuko exporting kiondos to over 30 countries. On the other hand, the rise of kiondo imitations produced with machinery threatens the authenticity of traditional kiondos.

Moreso, there are fears that the custom of Kiondo weaving will soon become extinct as locals turn to more modern jobs. To tackle this, some organisations have set up initiatives to promote the sustainability of the craft in Kenya. Fashion brands like Mifuko are also doing their part by making kiondo weaving a lucrative source of income for local weavers.

Today, the kiondo serves as both a cultural ambassador and a practical artefact. Its journey from local markets to global runways is a testament to its timeless appeal. However, its deeper significance lies in its ability to weave together Kenya’s past and present, blending the traditional with the contemporary.