Still much to overcome

But financial problems are not the only hurdles Kibera’s artists have to face. As her family’s elder, she should have assumed the responsibility of caring for her entire family. In their eyes, becoming an artist is far from being a reasonable choice and Owinio is struggling to win their support.

Moreover, she must deal with certain prejudices against women artists. “If I have chosen to become a painter, it is because I wish to set an example for all young girls living in slums who share the same aspirations as me. I would like to show them that becoming a teacher or doing business is not the only way out of poverty. We can also make a difference with art,” she told

This is what she expresses in her works, where she paints the everyday life of Kibera in all its beauty, including scenes of joy, sorrow and portraits of African women.

“When I was little, I was despised because my skin was darker. Some people even made me feel I was not beautiful. But I disagree!” said Owinio. “Black, in my opinion, can also be an inexhaustible source of beauty. That is why I want to show it in my works. And I am proud of it.”

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