The two-week training scheme facilitated by the government of India, is set to promote cultural exchange and strengthen ties through art. In an interview with The Zimbabwean at the official opening of the Innovative Basket Show held at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, Honde Valley Bamboo leader, Tracy Muparutsa, said the workshop had empowered them.
“We are confident of this new relationship between India and Zimbabwe and we have benefitted a lot as we were poor in knowledge, “she said. Muparutsa, who is also the village head, said the training has changed the lives of rural women in Honde.
“We used to weave ordinary baskets but we are now able to use the new designs we have learnt from India so our products now match international markets,” she said.
Masvingo-based Zienzela Foundation leader, Jenifer Matumbu, said following the India training they could now sustain themselves by using the skills acquired.
“We were looked down in society as most of the people in our group are widows. Now we are respected because we are able to send our children to school. Our lives have been really transformed,” she said.
National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe Director Doreen Sibanda said the opening of the innovative basket showcase fulfilled the mandate of The National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe in promoting traditional culture.
She said lots of effort was needed to connect the products to the market.
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