Copyright dailypost
Christina Sirig from Vetimbo village on Vanua Lava has turned her passion for gardening and handicraft into a sustainable livelihood that supports her family and community. Sirig works primarily as a gardener, but she is also a talented producer of handmade baskets crafted from local materials. Since beginning her handicraft journey in 2018, she has dedicated herself to weaving baskets using bush ropes and local vines, transforming traditional skills passed down from her ancestors into a thriving small business. “I never lose hope because this work helps my home,” Sirig shared, smiling as she described her daily routine of weaving and gardening. “It’s not just a hobby—it’s how I support my family and pay for our children’s school fees.” Her baskets, locally known as “Wissisro”, carry cultural significance and are a tribute to her ancestors who developed the weaving techniques she uses today. The name itself is traditional, connecting her modern creations to generations of craftsmanship before her. Sirig’s products are made from cane vines and black vines, known for their strength and durability. She explained that these natural materials are ideal for creating a wide range of items—shopping bags, fruit baskets, food covers, laundry baskets, hanging flower baskets, and decorative pieces. Prices for her bags range from VT1,000 to VT2,500, depending on size and design. To ensure a steady flow of income, Sirig always maintains a stock of finished products ready for sale. “When sales are low, having some stock helps me continue weaving without losing hope,” she said. Beyond basket weaving, Sirig has also expanded her work into the hospitality industry, operating a small guesthouse that complements her handicraft business. Her work has been supported through training programs run in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), which have helped women like her improve their production, marketing, and business management skills. “With their support, we’ve had the chance to showcase our products at expos and promote our skills beyond our village,” she noted. Sirig’s message to other women across Vanuatu is one of encouragement and perseverance. “Handicraft will always have demand,” she said. “I want to encourage mothers and young girls in the islands to continue this work. It helps our families and keeps our culture alive.” Supporting her every step of the way is her husband, Jonastone Manar, who plays an active role in the family’s handicraft production. “I help my wife with weaving and selling,” Jonastone said. “It’s not heavy work—it’s relaxing, and we earn a good income from it. Fathers should also take responsibility and help their wives. Handicraft is part of our island life, and it can truly sustain us.” Manar also works to collect and prepare the vines needed for weaving. Often, he buys vines from local landowners who grow them naturally on their land, providing an additional income source for others in the community. “We pay them for the vines, bring them home, and then spend our days weaving,” he explained.
