Blacksmithing is a creative business – Makeri

 Tanko Makeri is a blacksmith who resides in Igu village. He tells Aso Chronicle that he has been in the business since his teenage years and also speaks about the challenges, achievements and his plans for the future. When did you start this business and where did you learn it from? I started as a […]

 Tanko Makeri is a blacksmith who resides in Igu village. He tells Aso Chronicle that he has been in the business since his teenage years and also speaks about the challenges, achievements and his plans for the future.
When did you start this business and where did you learn it from?
I started as a young boy of 15 years. I learnt it from my father.
 What type of implements do you produce?
I produce hoes, axes, cutlasses and other farm implements.
 How do you get the materials you use for the work?
I buy the iron I use for the hoes, cutlasses and axes from the market while I get the wood from the farm. The wood is gotten freely from the bushes around us.
 What is your client base like?
Well, my client base is quite big because I get customers from within the village, from town and even from big markets. Those from the big markets buy in bulk and go back to resell.
What are the challenges you face in the business and how do you cope?
The challenges I face are quite enormous but I will mention few. One of the challenges I face is getting the wood. The reason is because it’s difficult getting the right tree for the work. Secondly, it is even more difficult during the rainy season because the wood will be wet so we will have to wait for it to dry. The next challenge I face is getting the iron because it can be very expensive. The charcoal is also difficult to get too, so all these things make it a bit challenging for me.
 What type of help do you require from the government?
The government should please help youths with some funds to start a business that would grow for at least a year. They can do this by providing loans for us as this would help those of us who are in business.
Have you been able to train anyone in the business?
Yes. One of my apprentices graduated last year. I have two boys presently learning under me.
 What are some of your achievement since you started?
I have been able to build my house from this trade. I am married with children and they are all in school. One of them will graduate from secondary school this year.