Learn the Art of Weaving. Preserve a Living Tradition

Reviving Indigenous Craftsmanship and Empowering Women under the Tsosolosa Ngwao Initiative

About the Workshop

The Etsha 6 Basket Weaving Workshop took place under the Tsosolosa Ngwao Initiative, a community programme championed by Mme Esther Thitaku Kushonya to restore Botswana’s basketry heritage and empower rural women through sustainable livelihoods.
Held at Ngamiland Basket Weavers Trust, the 10-day hands-on training focused on quality control, patterning, shaping, and international market readiness.

Objectives

Strengthen technical weaving skills and product consistency

Foster creativity within traditional design frameworks

Introduce entrepreneurship and export standards

Develop future community trainers and leaders

Encourage sustainable harvesting and eco-friendly production

Workshop Overview

Detail	Information
Duration	10 Days
Venue	Ngamiland Basket Weavers Trust, Etsha 6
Lead Facilitator	Mme Esther Thitaku Kushonya – Master Weaver & Community Builder
Team	Florah Monika (Teacher), Mandisa Tapiwa (Project Coordinator)
Participants	23 local weavers

Daily Highlights

Day 1 – Skill Assessment & Patterns: Introduced traditional + modern designs
Day 2 – Technique Enhancement: Use of horse tail to reinforce weave
Day 3 – Patterns & Shaping: Improved speed and accuracy
Day 4 – Cultural Dance & Teamwork: Celebrating craft as heritage
Day 5 – Quality Control & Export Readiness: Understanding global market demands
Week 2 – Refinement & Innovation: Colour coordination and entrepreneurship talks

Outcomes & Impact

Mastery of advanced techniques and finishing
Stronger understanding of international quality standards
Identified potential future trainers
Renewed community pride and economic motivation

“This initiative empowers Batswana women to achieve economic independence. Our women’s creativity is raising the Botswana flag in global markets.”

Mme Esther Thitaku Kushonya

The Art of Weaving

Harvesting Palm Fibres

Locally sourced ilala palm leaves are collected and sun-dried.

STAGE 1

Dyeing with Nature

Natural pigments from roots and bark bring earthy tones to the fibers.

STAGE 2

Weaving the Pattern

Each artisan works by hand, shaping every curve and motif with precision.

STAGE 3

Finishing Touches

The baskets are inspected, trimmed, and prepared for homes around the world.

STAGE 4

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