Women from Gucha South sub county in Kisii County have been challenged to venture into soapstone carving to economically empower themselves instead of avoiding the industry as a preserve for men.
A renowned soapstone carver from the area Prof Elkanah Ong'esa has underscored the importance of women exploiting their carving skills by tapping the potential of the soapstone resources in the area.
Speaking to this writer in Kisii town on Tuesday morning, Prof Ong'esa regretted that poor socialisation among women from the Gusii community that it was a taboo for them to venture into perceived male ventures and fields had reduced them into paupers despite the presence of plenty opportunities in their midst.
He said many women from the community were endowed with creative art skills and talents, but due to the community's conservative culture which restricts women from venturing into what is traditionally believed to be males' territories they cannot exploit their talents in the fields dominated by men, making them poor and desperate.
"With the changing world, I am wondering why women who are highly endowed with various talents shy away from venturing into fields dominated by men especially the art and creative industries to economically empower themselves," he said.
He encouraged women to exploit their skills to ensure they grow economically for their benefit and the community at large.