Innovations: natural materials take over interior décor

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In Uganda, maize is synonymous with one thing – posho! However, it can be used in various industries for the production of other products, including animal feed, starch, sweeteners, oil, beverages, glue and industrial alcohol.

That said, it is emerging that there is more to maize than posho and industrial products.

Lately, natural materials are a big trend in interior design. Maize husks, banana fibres, wood, thread, and other organic resources are becoming vital elements in the creation of harmonious and sustainable living spaces.

Maimuna Namwanje, of Rise and Shine, a group of women, in the Ntawo zone, Mukono district, turns maize husks into decorative flowers. At her workshop, Namwanje trains a group of women in interior design.

She explains that she started several women groups in 2011 in Kyebando-Kisiramu zone in Kampala city, where she lived before moving to Ntawo in Mukono district. The group in Mukono was set up in 2018.  

Mukono Municipal Council duly registered Rise and Shine, Ntawo Group, as a community-based organisation.

How it is done

• Dried maize husks are collected from people who roast maize on the roadside, at a cost of sh100,000 per month.
• The husks are dried, boiled and dyed. When they absorb the colours, they are taken off the fire and put out to dry again.
• They will then be twisted into various shapes using thread. The beads are linked together and designed in the form of a vase for the flower.

What the experts say

Dan Kayiza, another artist who uses banana fibre to create interior decoration accessories says the focus now is on natural materials as an alternative to synthetic ingredients, which are not eco-friendly. These raw materials decompose when discarded and can be used as fertiliser.

“In addition, natural materials are a symbol of our cultural heritage. Besides, one does not need a lot of capital to start a business. The public also recognises our culture, norms, tribes, and music, among other things, through art and craft,” he says.

Nowadays, people are constantly affiliated with natural materials in interior decoration because they create a warm, inviting atmosphere because of their depth and texture. These materials also add character and uniqueness to a living space.

Sadat Sewanyana, another designer, who uses bamboo and woodwork for interior décor accessories says Uganda is naturally gifted with good weather and raw materials.

“As a designer, it gives me opportunities to put my country on the international market through producing unique interior decoration products,” Sewanyana says.

According to him, raw materials are easily available; you do not import them, and there are no taxes imposed on them. Also, the raw materials are not chemically produced and do not release volatile organic compounds or cause allergic reactions.

Homeowners are also interested in raw materials’ decoration because they create spaces that balance nature and improve mental health.