Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre | Mombasa

Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre is a remarkable social enterprise located in Shanzu, Mombasa, Kenya. The center was founded in 1969 and has since been run by the Association for the Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK) since 1987. It provides vocational training, employment opportunities, and a comprehensive support system for individuals with physical disabilities, empowering them to live more independent and fulfilling lives.

History and Mission

The primary mission of Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre is to provide individuals with disabilities the chance to improve their quality of life through vocational training and sustainable employment. The center was initially established to help people with disabilities develop marketable skills, which in turn would allow them to support themselves financially and integrate more fully into the community.

Over the years, Bombolulu has grown into a significant institution for artisans with disabilities, offering them the tools, resources, and a work environment to enhance their skills in a variety of crafts. The center is also dedicated to promoting social inclusion, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that people with disabilities have access to opportunities that might otherwise be denied to them.

Artisan Workshops and Handicrafts

Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre is well known for its high-quality handcrafted products. The center operates multiple workshops, where skilled artisans create a wide array of beautiful, handmade crafts. Some of the key crafts produced include:

Jewelry: Bombolulu is particularly famous for its intricate, locally inspired jewelry made from materials like beads, shells, copper, and brass. These items showcase the unique artistic expression of the local culture while supporting the artisans' livelihoods.

Wood Carvings: The center produces traditional Kenyan wood carvings, including sculptures and decorative items, which are often influenced by the diverse ethnic groups of Kenya. The woodwork includes everything from small figurines to larger, more elaborate pieces.

Textiles: Bombolulu is also known for its textile products, such as beautifully crafted garments and hand-woven fabrics. The textiles are often made using traditional methods and patterns, which reflect the rich cultural diversity of Kenya.

Leather Goods: The center produces a variety of leather items, including bags, belts, and wallets. These items are made with skill and attention to detail, offering both functional and stylish products that are highly sought after by visitors.

These crafts are sold at the center’s on-site gift shop, where visitors can purchase authentic, handcrafted items. This not only helps the artisans earn a living but also provides visitors with the opportunity to take home unique souvenirs that reflect Kenya’s cultural and artistic heritage.

Cultural Village

In addition to the artisan workshops, Bombolulu also features a cultural village, which is an important part of the center’s educational offerings. The cultural village is designed to showcase traditional Kenyan homesteads from different ethnic groups across the country. These homesteads are meticulously built to represent the diverse lifestyles of Kenya’s many tribes.

The cultural village gives visitors the opportunity to learn about Kenya’s cultural heritage, traditions, and ways of life that have been preserved for centuries. The homesteads are set up in such a way that visitors can step into them and experience firsthand what life was like in different regions of Kenya, from the coastal Swahili culture to the pastoral Maasai communities of the Rift Valley. This immersive experience helps foster a deeper understanding of Kenya's rich cultural diversity.

Social and Community Support

Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre offers much more than just vocational training. The center’s holistic approach to community development means it provides a wide range of social services for its artisans and their families. Some of the key support services include:

Healthcare Services: The center provides access to basic healthcare for the artisans, ensuring they receive the necessary medical attention to manage their disabilities and overall health. This service is crucial in improving the well-being of the artisans and ensuring they can continue their work without the added burden of untreated health issues.

Nursery School for Children: Bombolulu runs a nursery school for the children of the artisans, giving them access to early childhood education. This service ensures that the children of artisans with disabilities have the same opportunities for education and development as other children in the community.

Recreational Facilities: The center also offers recreational opportunities for artisans and their families, encouraging social interaction, relaxation, and overall well-being. These facilities help to foster a sense of community and create a supportive environment for everyone involved.

Cultural Events and Performances

Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre is not only a place for craft production but also a center for cultural exchange and celebration. The center hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including performances that showcase traditional Kenyan music, dance, and art forms. These events provide visitors with a deeper appreciation for the cultural diversity of Kenya and create a platform for the artisans to express themselves creatively.

The performances often include dances, drumming, and storytelling, which are integral parts of Kenyan cultural heritage. Visitors can engage with the performers and learn about the significance of these cultural practices, which helps promote greater cultural understanding and appreciation.

Location and Visiting Information

Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre is located in Shanzu, about 15 kilometers (9 miles) north of Mombasa’s city center. It is easily accessible by road, and guided tours are available for those who wish to explore the workshops, cultural village, and learn more about the artisans' work. The tours provide an in-depth look at the center’s operations, the craft production process, and the lives of the artisans.

The center is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, making it a great place to visit for tourists and locals alike. Admission fees are typically charged, and it is recommended to check the center's official website or contact them for up-to-date information on pricing and tour availability.

Supporting the Community

When you purchase products from Bombolulu Workshops, you are not only acquiring unique and high-quality crafts but also supporting a cause that promotes social inclusion and the empowerment of people with disabilities. By purchasing items at the gift shop, attending cultural events, or taking guided tours, visitors contribute directly to the sustainability of the center and the livelihoods of its artisans.

Conclusion

Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre stands as a shining example of social entrepreneurship and cultural preservation. It offers a unique blend of vocational training, community support, and cultural education, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Kenya’s rich cultural heritage and its efforts to promote social inclusion. The center’s work empowers individuals with disabilities, giving them a platform to showcase their talents and improve their lives, while also offering visitors an unforgettable cultural experience.