Litoya Makenge Weavers

Zambia

Year(s) attended: 2010

Litoya Makenge Weavers

Basket Weaving

The Makenge tree grows exclusively on the surface of the semi-desert sand in the western province of Zambia, where the Lozi people live. For generations, the Lozi have harvested the roots of the tree to split into fibers of various widths for weaving baskets.

They weave using a screwdriver-like tool made from a bicycle spoke and a wooden door knob. Colorful patterns are created within the baskets using natural dyes for the fibers. Black is created from Mumwa tree leaves boiled with a piece of iron. Orange is made from the powder of the tree root.

Lozi Makenge baskets are known for their robust and sturdy nature. They traditionally are given as wedding presents, used to store or transport food, or to serve Nshima, a thick maize porridge that is a staple of the Zambian diet.

The Litoya Makenge Weavers are a group of eleven women based on the outskirts of the provincial capital of Zambia’s Western Province. For over two decades, they have come together to produce these renown baskets that are sold to local clients, tourists and, more recently, for export around the world.