World Wide Soap Blog and Forum

Soapmaking in Kenya

Welcome to a blog and forum devoted to sharing ideas, solving problems and promoting sustainable soap making (and a variety of other things) in developing countries. I have been a soap maker for 15 years and had my first opportunity to teach soap making to a group of ladies in Kenya 1 1/2 years ago. They were part of a microfinance group called Yehu and planned to make soap together as a business. Since then I have been affiliated with Basa Body as a soap maker and consultant and with the Asante Foundation, promoting and developing opportunities for Kenyans.

Recently I have had several friends travel to Ethiopia and Cambodia to start soapmaking projects. While we all experienced varying degrees of success, all felt the lack of adequate information before the trip began. After doing one's best to prepare, there is always a fair amount of trial and error upon arriving in the country. There can be many unknown factors involving procuring materials, facilities and variations in ingredient qualities. As most humanitarian trips are not lengthy, time is extremely valuable and progress can be frustratingly slow. Information shared through projects already experiencing success can be most helpful.

In the spirit of helping and serving in developing nations, where hygiene and opportunity are both lacking, I am starting this blog to bring together a sharing of ideas, experiences and expertise. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to contribute information or to have your organization/project spotlighted here.