Banana plant: More than just a fruit

As we drive to the training centre, the driver hints to me that we are out to meet this group of hardworking men and women that are the talk in the streets of Tokyo. Silence dominates the rest piece of our drive. As we get deep in the Kimironko estate mixed thought merge. Are we really heading to the right place? The question toss around my mind, suddenly, he hoots and the gate flaps open and the voices of a busy environment welcome us. Spinning and weaving machine made from wood complicate my thinking. Wood!Banana leaves are out in the open to dry as the dried ones are being worked on. An exhibition room is our next stop. My eyes open as the beauty light up the moment. My hands yearn to touch and I do so to have a feel of the fabric. What! Banana leaves? Oh my God! What a creative piece of art we have in this handbag! With colours blending in harmony of its kind, the piece looks stunning. To many just like me, when banana comes to your mind we only think of a feast. But there is more to it than that sumptuous delicacy that waters your mouth. Fashion at its best. Polished creativity that leaves your stomach full as you walk all day smartly dressed from the products of bananas. Meet Amani Kalisa of Amani-K Fashion creation and her counterpart from River of Nation Foundation at their best to ensure you have that elegant look and design made from banana fibre. “We make clothes from banana fibre mixed with wool and we export them to the U.S as we got the market abroad,” Amina, who has embraced innovation, narrates to The New Times, showing a beautiful brown casual shirt, a final product of the new technology in town. The shirt can be worn with jeans trouser and open shoes when having your “me time” as it has that touch of simplicity.For a warm mid-morning market shopping you can do away with the sacks and go for the banana-made shopping bags that are in different shapes and size to suit your choice and preference. During those cold weathers, grab yourself some let warmers and scarf to drive away the cold with creativity. The fibre mixed with wool gives that warmth for nature that coffee can’t offer. For that date that can see you say bye to the world of singlehood, the purse that are produced here can spice up the talk and award your presentation with a splendid look. Not only do they have a keen eye on your designs in terms of dressing but also accessories and interior design. From curtain, to door mats to coasters and photo frames all produced under one roof. So to give your house an all-natural look nursed up with rendition of hospitality acquire one of the door mats, curtains, photo frames a coaster and home will be a little heaven down here on earth. After acquiring these skills from Japan, Amani came back home to produce in large quantities for export but also had to share the knowledge to others. “We got a donation of spinning and weaving machines enough for thirty members that will be trained on how to use them,” Amina says.

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Banana plant: More than just a fruit