An Introduction to the book...

In compiling this information on craft production and marketing in Zimbabwe, we have wanted to focus on craft skills and the diversity and quality of the products being made, and to make it easier for buyers to gain access to both the producers themselves and the craft marketers who are representing them and who will co-ordinate the order and export process for customers.

Records show us that hand skills have been used in Zimbabwe to make utilitarian objects as well as ceremonial and ritual artefacts and items of adornment for hundreds of years – drum makers and bead workers still retain these skills which have been handed down to them from earlier generations. Potters are still making functional pots using shapes, decorative motifs and firing techniques that have remained largely unchanged over the years.

And from a 16th century chronicler travelling in Zimbabwe, we know that the woven bark fibre called Gudza, was being made then, as it is now, and used for clothing and blankets.
In recent years the global economic crisis has had a serious effect on the livelihoods of craft producers, especially in Zimbabwe where there was a sharp downturn in sales as a result of the near collapse of the tourist industry.

However, the signs are that the tide is turning and innovative craft marketers and product designers have seized this opportunity to work with craft producers, harnessing a wealth of creative energy and blending traditional skills with contemporary design bringing about a sparkling regeneration in Zimbabwe’s craft sector.

Sadly, there are groups and individuals whom we did not manage to visit and who have not been included in the book - many of the stone carving co-operatives and also the numerous groups doing beautiful crochet work but access to these groups can be facilitated through the many contacts listed at the back of this book. The story of
Zimbabwe’s gifted handicraft producers will continue to grow and develop and it is to be hoped that soon this information can be made available and regularly updated, on this website.

Visiting craft shops and producers around the country, it has been exciting to see and to feel the surge of this vibrant, humorous, colourful and boundless outpouring of expression from Zimbabwe’s craft producers. Yes!

Zimbabwe’s craft producers are open for business and waiting to greet you!