Meet Zambezi Maker, Mabi Sitali!
Marvellous Mabi!
Our long-time friend and Zambezi Maker, Mabi Sitali, is the genius behind the doorbells and Tonga stools for sale on our shop, but Mabi’s carving skills extend to so many exciting and beautiful wares, which he makes at home, in the Malambo Village on the Zambezi, Zambia, or sometimes at Royal Chundu's Workshop!
Mabi was born without the use of his legs as the result of polio, leaving him to use his knees as feet, but these days his wheelchair helps him to get around.
Our long-time friend and Zambezi Maker, Mabi Sitali, is the genius behind the doorbells and Tonga stools for sale on our shop, but Mabi’s carving skills extend to so many exciting and beautiful wares, which he makes at home, in the Malambo Village on the Zambezi, Zambia, or sometimes at Royal Chundu's Workshop!
Mabi was born without the use of his legs as the result of polio, leaving him to use his knees as feet, but these days his wheelchair helps him to get around.
Mabi didn’t get to go to school due to his disability. He’s had to find other ways to bring in an income for himself, and woodwork is one of those ways.
Mabi started making small boats, supplying Royal Chundu, then the wooden mekoro seen here. From there it was doorbells and massage sticks and he continued to create new items - hippos and other animals!
Despite being unable to use his legs, Mabi is also a fisherman. He puts his nets out and the next morning goes to see what he’s caught. Even though it is hard, he forces himself to go into the Zambezi, by mokoro, to fish so that he can buy whatever he needs.
We are so grateful to be able to provide another opportunity for Mabi to support himself through the Zambezi Joy Society, sharing his creations with you all, around the world!
Mabi is such an inspiration to us daily and we are honoured to call him family!
