Weaving empowerment through tradition

For centuries women of the Owambo culture of North-Central Namibia have woven functional baskets with great talent and artistry.   In a  time of worldwide cultural exchange Namibians have found an opportunity to share their traditional art with the world.  As the country addresses rapid modernization, changes in gender roles and the spread of HIV, the Oshikuku Basket Project was created in 2006 to utilize this traditional Namibian art to economically and socially empower women.  The project has grown from eight members, to 77, and still more are waiting to join.  Monthly meetings provide a space where together the women negotiate prices and encourage standards of excellence, resulting in a local project with a global reach. 

Oshikuku Baskets Twitter Blog
February 5 2010, 6:51am

RT @NextBillion: The unintended consequences of development aid - a cautionary tale from the field: http://bit.ly/9JFOgW #BoP #Africa #A ...

February 5 2010, 6:48am

RT @zyOzyfounder: “Do, or do not. There is no try.” – Yoda

February 5 2010, 6:44am

thoughts on too much attention being placed on ARV treatment? http://aidwatchers.com/2010/02/how-the-war-on-aids-was-lost/

January 29 2010, 5:46am

Don’t be cynical. Expect the unexpected. Work really hard. Be kind. Amazing things will happen. -conan

January 29 2010, 5:43am

RT @bill_easterly: RT @zyOzyfounder #Davos Special Report: #Africa rising http://is.gd/76y6U

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INTERNATIONAL DAY OF
RURAL WOMEN

After an underwhelming marketing campaign earlier this year, I am trying again, to better use my voice, to help women find theirs. Commemorating the International Day of Rural Women, the 15th of October, a network of friends will help spread the word about The Oshikuku Basket Project, and we hope you will, too! With a $50 budget, let's see how much noise we can make.

CHALLENGE:
Quality over Quantity
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BASKETS
Check out the baskets.
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