By Sainabou Sambou
According to statistics the candle market in The Gambia is projected to grow by 3.13 % by (2023-2028), resulting in a market volume of US$0m in 2028. Research has also shown that candles can improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, promote relationships, and improve sleep.
Edward Manneh, a young talented candle maker is among those young Gambian youths in the creative industry, who are passionate about creativity.
In an interview, with Gambia Daily the young artistexplained his journey and inspiration in the creative industry. According to him, he was inspired by his mother, who told him that candles couldbe made locally.
He said it was where his passion came in and started making candles after several failedattempts but did not give up.
Manneh explained how he makes candles using branches of pawpaw, rope, lostwax, and other equipment
“I use a razor blade to cut thepawpaw branch by usingsticks and sand for the pawpaw branch to stand. I alsotake empty cansof drinks and cut them in the middle put lost wax in the pot and place it on the fire until it melts then I put the melted wax in the pawpaw branchesand put a rope in it and leave it to get dry,” he explained.
He added that he has not started selling his candles, but would love to sell them in future.