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. 

On World AIDS Day, and each day, remember leaders like Hilma Nambinga, pictured left, who empower people infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS.
Oshikuku Baskets Twitter Blog
March 22 2012, 9:23pm

RT @Kiva: Free trials are still available! If you want one, act quickly! They won't be around for long! http://t.co/F0KdQVit

March 22 2012, 9:21pm

RT @AfricanProverbs: A chattering bird builds no nest. ~Cameroonian Proverb

March 22 2012, 9:17pm

Happy 22 years and 1 day, #Namibia.

February 21 2012, 6:59pm

#Basket shop should be moving to main tar road in northern #Namibia soon - this should increase sales and buzz! Exciting!

February 3 2012, 6:31pm

@PRkate Ha! Thanks! Will keep thinking about it, but will leave it like that for now.

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COMMUNITY PRESENTATION

Special thanks to the UCC Community Forum in Simi Valley, CA for hosting a presentation about The Oshikuku Basket Project. If your organization would be interested in learning more about our work, please contact Amber Lung, at amberlung@gmail.com, to discuss ways to collaborate.

CHALLENGE:
Quality over Quantity
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BASKETS
Check out the baskets.
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