Basketry in Kinshasa endangered by raw material shortages

The traditional art of basketry in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is facing an existential threat as artisans grapple with a severe shortage of natural raw materials. Craftsmen who specialize in weaving objects from vines, raffia, and reeds are finding it increasingly difficult to source the necessary components for their creations.

Artisans report that Kinshasa itself now offers few natural resources, with dwindling bushes and thickets. This scarcity compels them to procure materials from other, often remote and challenging-to-reach, regions of the country. Such expeditions not only escalate production costs but also impose significant physical burdens on the artisans, impacting their health and the profitability of their work.

These artisans view basketry as more than just a livelihood; it is a vital link to ancestral traditions and a means of perpetuating Congolese culture. They are issuing an urgent appeal for institutional support to protect and promote this heritage. The woven items, ranging from everyday baskets to decorative pieces and ceremonial chairs, hold deep cultural significance and risk disappearing if the current supply chain issues are not addressed.

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The vines used are natural and come from other provinces of the country. These trips exhaust us, expose us to risks, and weaken the profitability of our products, which are cultural and identity symbols.