How Kisumu's female coffin makers are defying gender stereotypes

Maureen Anyango and Penina Atieno are challenging gender norms in a field traditionally dominated by men. [Rodgers Otiso, Standard] In a small workshop near Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kisumu County, two women are defying cultural expectations in a trade traditionally reserved for men. Meet Maureen Anyango, 30, a mother of two, and Penina Atieno, 21, who both work at Ofunyu Jerusalem, a coffin-making business that has operated for over two decades. Maureen is a carpenter, sanding and smoothing wooden coffins with admirable precision, while Penina is a tailor, specialising in burial garments and coffin linings. In a society where such roles are largely male-dominated and often stigmatised, these women are reshaping narratives through hard work and determination. "I'm Maureen Anyango, 30 years old and a mother of two," she says, wood shavings covering her hands as she puts the final touches on a coffin. "Here at Ofunyu Jerusalem, I do the scraping of the already formed coffins, it's the third-last stage before the final product is ready. I love what I do. Despite having gone to school and earning good grades, this is the job that helps me provide for my two lovely children," she says. Seasoned professional By 8.40am, Maureen is already at work, deeply focused. This has been her daily routine for six months. Though new in the field, her dedication makes her look like a seasoned professional. Maureen Anyango and Penina Atieno are challenging gender norms in a field traditionally dominated by men. [Rodgers Otiso, Standard] "People often say this is a man's job, and we women must be abnormal to do it. But we are just ordinary women doing honest work. This is no different from a woman who opens a grocery shop every morning," she says. Maureen describes the backlash she faces from society. "I've heard a lot of negativity. Some think we celebrate death to make sales. But that's false. I do this because my children need to eat, go to school, and I must handle my own needs. Without money, that's not possible," she says. Owned by Kisumu resident Reuben Onyango, Ofunyu Jerusalem has been in operation for 20 years and currently employs 30 young people, both men and women. Reuben proudly notes the exceptional dedication of his female staff. "I have 30 energetic youth working here. Among them, the women stand out for their commitment, even while dealing with social stigma. I'm proud of them," he says. Reuben is also quick to debunk the myth that coffin-makers thrive on death. "This business didn't start with the intention of celebrating death. Death is a natural occurrence. We exist to help the community bury their loved ones with dignity. We don't pray for people to die; we just add value by creating employment in a country with limited opportunities," he explains. A 2018 Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) report revealed that nine out of every 10 unemployed Kenyans are aged 35 and below. Make garments A further analysis of the 2023 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey showed that 40.3 per cent of women were jobless compared to 18.5 per cent of men. Penina Atieno, 21, is another remarkable young lady in the workshop. She learnt her skills from her mother, who also worked in a coffin-making workshop. "I'm a tailor here. Most people think tailors only mend clothes, but I make garments for the deceased. I also tailor the sheets used to line the coffins," she says. "At first, it was hard. I used to dream about dead bodies because of being around coffins all day. But now, I've gotten used to it, and I love what I do." Penina finds meaning in her work. "Even if someone offered me another job, I wouldn't take it. This is my space. I earn something, sometimes support my family, and feel proud. I encourage other women not to shy away from jobs like this just because of public opinion," she says. Reuben sells between eight and 10 coffins weekly, depending on demand. Maureen Anyango and Penina Atieno are challenging gender norms in a field traditionally dominated by men. [Rodgers Otiso, Standard] Prices range from Sh10,000 to Sh80,000, based on design and quality. He admits the business has its challenges. "Sometimes, clients don't come. We make ready-to-sell coffins, but not all are bought immediately. That can be frustrating because we invest time and expensive materials. But that's the nature of business. People often accuse us of being happy when someone dies, but that's painful and untrue. We don't kill people. Death is natural," says Reuben. Both Maureen and Penina are shining examples of resilience. Maureen wakes up at 5am every day to prepare her children for school before heading to work. She once did lower-paying jobs but is now proud of what she earns, even if the criticism never stops. "To the women who criticise us, I say: stop tearing others down. I'd rather earn my living here than depend on a man or do questionable things for money. As long as your work is legal, it's honourable," says Maureen firmly. As Kenya grapples with youth unemployment, Maureen and Penina represent a powerful message: dignity exists in every honest job. Gender should not determine one's profession. In the scent of sawdust and hum of sewing machines, these women are carving a new path not just for themselves, but for many others who will dare to follow.

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