Women’s Economic Empowerment for Sustainable Development through Indigenous Basket and Mat Weaving in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Investing in women’s economic empowerment sets a direct path towards gender equality, poverty eradication and inclusive economic growth. This chapter reflects on how women’s economic empowerment could serve as a prerequisite for sustainable development. Zimbabwe is still experiencing a generally low status for women with respect to access to economic resources and economic opportunities. Women’s economic empowerment may be achieved through education. This chapter considers the significance of non-formal education in Zimbabwe. It analyses how holistic community-based non-formal education organisations might offer education to women that could lead to sustainable development through training women on how to weave baskets and mats using indigenous materials. Three indigenous basket and mat weavers based at Great Zimbabwe Monuments were observed and interviewed whilst weaving. It was established that the weaving skills being used could be passed on to other community women through non-formal training. Production costs could be minimised through using locally available materials. Markets for the products are available at most tourist centres in Zimbabwe, which is a famous tourist destination. Entrepreneurial skills could be developed through non-formal training. It is argued that the weaving project, if well-established, could be a source for the much-needed foreign currency in Zimbabwe.