Mug Bwat Chany

Almano Dera, known as "Kokobe" (a nickname often used for individuals with disabilities), has been working at Sou Obwen, the bustling market square in Pétionville, near Toto Bòlet, since 2001.

He speaks passionately about his craft. The shoeshine box is called a "chany", and the shoeshine boy is referred to as "Jòj" (George). For cleaning shoes, he uses "ti bwos mouye", small brushes designed for applying liquid soap. To make shoes shine, he employs larger brushes, known as "bwos bwose."

For his cobbler's work, Almanno uses a special needle called an "alèn" and #115 thread. He charges 10 Gourdes for shoe polishing and between 50 and 100 Gourdes for repairs, depending on the job.

Almano’s life was forever altered by typhoid fever during childhood, which left him with twisted feet. As a result, he can only walk a short distance without the aid of crutches. Despite these challenges, he continues to work with resilience and pride in his trade.