Bad tidings for mat maker as swamp choked

Locals wade through Yala Swamp in Siaya County to harvest papyrus reeds to make marts on May 25, 2015. For decades, Christine Odugo has been wading through shallow Lake Kanyaboli waters to harvest the reeds. But lately, the reeds are on decline. [PHOTO BY: HEZRON OCHIEL/STANDARD]

For decades, Christine Odugo has been wading through the shallow Lake Kanyaboli waters to harvest papyrus reeds to make mats.

The Kanyaboli waters are not safe, for the lake is home to deadly pythons. But Odugo, 64, dares fate everyday in an effort to feed her family.