At 89 years, Mary simoono of Simoono village of Jokwe area of Chief Simwatachela challenges her age saying “age is just a number”. Mary was married to a secondary school teacher but was widowed 25 years ago. She gave birth to 14 children, seven of whom died. After the death of her husband, she suffered terribly and later joined a womens club that used to have meetings with Response Network. Mary used to make door mats for leisure until she attended one of the RN workshops on Income Generating Activities. She realized that she had a skill that should not die. She looked for a women’s club and later settled with the Jokwe womens club. Now, she teaches young women of the Jokwe club to learn the fast way of making reed mats. The mat business is giving her some good money.

The video clip was taken during the exhibition held at Jokwe School grounds. Using the pole frame she can make two reed mats in a day. The women of Jokwe have embraced the art and they can make more than 10 reed mats in a day during the hours of their meeting. One mat costs K75/k80/K90/K100 depending on the size and design. Although she is not talking in the clip, a separate interview was held where she shared some more information. “When compared with others of my age, I am doing far better as I am still making money of my own that I can spend the way I want and can enjoy my golden years.” The club has managed to tap wisdom from the elders on the skills they have and this is why the club has always scoped first or second prize in most of the shows and exhibitions they take part in.