Mukondeni woman builds life from clay
Mukondeni-based Setina Selapyane turns clay into flowerpots and bowls, using traditional methods to earn a living and support her children.
LIMPOPO – Setina Selapyane of Mukondeni has carved out a niche for herself in the traditional art of clay pot making, a craft that not only allows her to express creativity but also helps her supplement her income.
Turning necessity into opportunity
Selapyane is self-taught and says her motivation comes from needing to support her family.
“How could I sit around and watch my children live in poverty? We are all gifted in some way or another, but some people are just too lazy to use their brains to make ends meet,” she said.
She explained that her entry into the trade was born out of necessity.
“I initially thought of buying flowerpots to sell, but I did not have the money to start such a business.
“Then I realised I could make my own, and that is how my clay business started.”
A hands-on traditional process
Selapyane produces flowerpots, bowls, containers and other decorative items using traditional methods.
She collects clay from nearby bushes several kilometres from her home, carrying it in bags on her shoulders due to a lack of transport.
She then kneads the clay, coils it into shape and moulds it into various products.
Once completed, she gathers firewood and cow dung to fire the items in a pit at her home, often leaving them to bake overnight before allowing them to cool and adding paint for finishing touches.
“After making the products, I fire them overnight and wait for them to cool before doing final touches,” she said.
Challenges of an unpredictable income
Despite her dedication, Selapyane says the business is unpredictable.
“This is an informal business that does not guarantee income. I sometimes go for two months without a single customer,” she said.
Still, she remains committed to her craft, relying on patience and persistence to sustain her livelihood.
