Women art and tourism on Ilha de Moçambique

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Women art and tourism on Ilha de Moçambique

3:49 CAT | 05 Nov 2020

Photo courtesy: Ilha Blue

A group of women from Ilha de Moçambique have partnered with the acclaimed ethical textiles company from Maputo, Karingana Textiles, to create ‘Ilha Unique’ capulana.

On Ilha de Moçambique, tourism is an important part of the economy but it is dominated by men. In response to the drop in tourism this year the women have decided to take action. To this end a group of 12 women have formed a collective Axinene Ari Vava – ‘We are the owners and we are here’. “We want to show Ilha to the rest of Mozambique and the world. We are the women of the island, together we are strong; we will tell the women’s story of Ilha”, says Atija Mussagi Abdala.

Karingana Textiles will run a series of workshops over a 12 month period to upskill the women in textile arts including natural dyeing, fabric painting, block printing, and product finishing. Working with Karingana Textiles will expose the women to new ideas and markets. The creation and sale of boutique textile products will provide economic independence, facilitate a strong social space and reinforce what is at the core – culture, society, creativity, sustainability.

Most Mozambicans have a lifelong desire to visit the World Heritage listed former capital of the country, the once centre of the lucrative Indian ocean trade. And whether you are a foreigner visiting Ilha or a Mozambican, the allure of this iconic island is so strong that once you have visited Ilha you are left with a persistent longing to return. To be able to purchase Ilha designed capulana and boutique homewares will give visitors a chance to take a piece of Ilha home with them.

Gail Woods, co-founder of Ilha Blue Island Safaris believes this will give a much needed boost to the economy and tourism on the island. “What is needed in these uncertain times are new ideas rooted in collaboration, localhood, sustainability, creativity and quality” says Gail.

Gail has initiated a campaign to raise startup funds for Axinene Ari Vava.

Over 80 individuals have already made contributions and the campaign has achieved 63% of its target.

There is less than 2 weeks to go to reach the target amount.

For your chance to participate in this worthwhile project and for more information go to:
https://startsomegood.com/axinene-ilha-textiles