Kiondo "kyondo" : A Handcrafted Bag of Tradition and Modern Elegance

The kiondo, also known as kyondo, kiondoo, or ciondo, is a traditional handwoven bag crafted by women artisans in eastern and central Kenya. This beautiful, versatile basket has origins in Kenyan culture but has evolved into a fashion staple across modern Africa. The kiondo is made from durable sisal fiber and often features leather trimmings. Its design can incorporate various embellishments, such as beads or other accessories, giving it a chic, contemporary appeal suited to modern tastes. Originally, kiondos served practical purposes in Kenyan communities. Women used these baskets for everyday activities such as shopping, transporting goods to and from the market, storing essentials like food, spices, and water, and as thoughtful gifts for weddings. A primary use for kiondos was to carry fruits and vegetables during the harvest season. This traditional bag is especially significant among the Taita, Kikuyu, and Kamba tribes of Kenya. Known as 'chondo' in Swahili (plural 'vyondo'), the kiondo symbolizes a unique blend of cultural heritage and artisan craftsmanship, bridging the traditional and the contemporary.