Beading Cooperative – Biocultural Conservation Institute

The Ins and Outs of Cooperatives

Post author:Sereena Kumar
Post published:February 24, 2024
Post category:Beading Cooperative Compatible Enterprises Joint Efforts for Green Mountain Initiative Maasai Tribe Sandal Cooperative

BCI's 2024 goal is to form beading and sandal cooperatives for the Maasai and Batwa tribes, enhancing self-sufficiency and job opportunities. Unlike investor-owned firms, these cooperatives distribute profits based on contribution, supporting community and personal incomes. They face challenges like funding and market targeting, but with collective effort and support, they can uplift communities, preserve cultural practices, and provide stable incomes.

Through a new beading cooperative, Maasai women establish a source of personal income and empowerment.

Maasai Beadwork Offers Sustainable Livelihood

Post author:Sereena Kumar
Post published:January 9, 2024
Post category:BCI Pillar BCI Projects Beading Cooperative Community Partners Compatible Enterprises Maasai Tribe

The women of the Maasai tribe in Kenya find empowerment and artistic expression through beading, which is deeply rooted in their culture. Beading represents their identity and unity, while also providing a source of income. Establishing a beading cooperative would offer these women a steady market for their creations, supporting their art and providing them with a voice.