Tribal Textiles is located near South Luwangwa National Park, in eastern Zambia. Many people stop by here on the way or to this great national park, but it is definitely worth checking out in terms of a business that is making a difference to the life of many Zambians.
The business was established in 1991, and specialises in traditional products and provides jobs for over 150 people. These kind of products include clothes, paintings, sheets, bed covers, and almost anything else you can make from a piece of fabric. Even though it’s located in a pretty isolated part of southern Africa, products are exported world wide, and funds are directly channelled back into the local community. Travellers can buy goods directly from the factory if they stop by and visit, which you are most welcome to do.
Tribal Textiles – African Good News Story
I visited Tribal Textiles in 2008, and they look pretty well set up and organised. It was great to see something so positive in one of the poorest parts of Africa.
You can see more information on what they do at their website.
Here are some photos from the Tribal Textiles Factory that I took when wandering around.
For example, checking out works in progress.
Lots of colourful products that would make a nice addition to a kid’s bedroom.
Finishing off with the end product.
Tribal Textiles – an attraction in it’s own right.
If you are ever around South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, it’s definitely worth visiting Tribal Textiles. This is a great example of how such a simple concept can help locals earn enough money to put food on the table.
It’s almost as entrepreneurial as Growing Hemp For Profit!
Also, if you’re interested in the region, check out Zambia Safari – The Luangwa Valley & Kafue Flats.
Other things from Zambia:
- Penis Enlargement Cream – Funny Male Enhancement Advertisement!
- Funny Bar Signs – Billy’s Bar from Zambia
- Syphilis Treatments for it’s Symptoms – Combined with International Shoe Repair!
- Microlighting – Best Thing to do at Victoria Falls in Zambia/Zimbabwe
- Coffin Workshops – Africa’s Fastest Growing Industry
- Tribal Textiles in Zambia – An African Art Economic Success Story
- Washing Machines – Be Grateful You Don’t Have To Wash Your Clothes In The River
If you’re planning a trip soon, check out my best travel insurance tips, and get a quote on some Backpacker Travel Insurance.
These are beautiful Anthony, great story.
Peace
It was great to see something so positive in Africa, instead of the endless poverty. Just shows the continent has so much potential!
Yeah..indeed very true. Though some parts of Africa is known for poverty, it’s really great to know that they have something to be proud of and not just on poverty. Like shown above, Tribal Textiles are I think world class quality. It’s beautiful! Great piece of art.
Great blog post, I saw a similar handmade art and craft place in Arusha which employed mainly disabled people who didn’t have much opportunity for employment nor could claim any benefits. I was amazed at some of the great things they were making from recycled items such as glass bottles.
You are correct Anthony, Africa has SO much potential!
When it comes to art and craft,Africa is a well known continent.Its art piece speak louder than words.Each picture has its own meaning attached to its culture.Thanks for the information.gorilla trekking
Women in Africa are well known to do this activity perfectly well.The pictures are so wonderful.safari clothing
I swear I could look at African arts and crafts all day. When I went to South Africa, even stuff was fairly inexpensive, I ended up buying over $500 worth of masks, baskets, wood cravings, swords, etc and having them shipped back home. Can’t imagine how much I’ll spend when I finally make it back, now that I actually have some money…
there is definitely some cool stuff there!
Wow, what an amazing textile workshop! Theres a similar one in Arusha, Tanzania for glass work.
Sounds cool!