When clay soaks up water, it becomes elastic and flexible. In other words, wet clay is malleable and adjustable. While in this versatile form, the material can be molded into a variety of shapes.

Through pottery, clay is transformed into a wide range of vessels. Eventually, the said vessels go through fire to develop desirable qualities. Firing is a crucial step in the refining process.

A couple of days ago, I published a story highlighting my experiences brewing coffee at El Vista Café in Kigali. In the same piece, I mentioned the handcrafted cup that caught my eye. Charmed by the cup and the whole set, I decided to learn more about their formation.

Fortunately, there is a pottery boutique under the same roof. While in the shop, I was awestruck by the beauty of the cups, plates, saucers and pots, among other things. One of these days, I will visit a cooperative of ceramists plying their craft in the Southern Province of Rwanda. When that happens, you will be the first to know.

When I was marveling at the immaculately polished ceramic wares, a Caucasian tourist popped in to buy a few utensils. Allured by the beautiful souvenirs, he looked like a kid in a candy store. "I wish I can take home the entire stock." He told me.

It’s about time we embrace locally made products. By doing so, we will be supporting artisans and other players involved in our communities. Besides, overdependence on imported products is detrimental to the economy.