The Impact of Handicrafts on Economic Development: A Case Study of Bulawayo Kraal in Binga, 1990-2000

Abstract

The study examines how commercial basket weaving in Bulawayo Kraal Village in Binga
District in Zimbabwe during the nineties contributed to the economic development of the
community. Binga district is faced with a stagnant economy, poverty and lack of basic
infrastructure. Governmental and humanitarian aid development strategies since
independence have largely been ineffective in improving the economy of the region hence there
is need to explore how indigenous knowledge systems such as the production of handicrafts
can bring economic development. The paper shows key findings from qualitative data obtained
from in-depth interviews with basket-makers of Bulawayo Kraal and traders who used to buy
Tonga baskets for resale. The data gathered established that commercial basket weaving in
Bulawayo Kraal as a local initiative generated income for the people and as a result improved
the economy but the community remained largely underdeveloped. The research revealed
major challenges faced by basket makers leading to the decline of the trade but identified the
potential of handicrafts in the economic development of rural economies with low agricultural
potential