Botswana Craft: A Cultural Showcase

Botswana Craft, established in 1970, stands as a pivotal organization in preserving and promoting Botswana's cultural heritage. More than a retail space, it serves as a multifaceted cultural center, encompassing an art center, conference venue, event space, and restaurant. Located in Gaborone, it offers an immersive experience into the arts, crafts, and traditions of Botswana.The center's primary mission is to support local artisans, particularly women in rural communities, by providing a platform to sell their handmade crafts. These crafts include intricate baskets from the Ngamiland region, pottery, weavings, and wood carvings. Baskets, in particular, hold significant cultural value, traditionally used for storing grains and carrying items. The designs often carry cultural narratives, with colors holding spiritual significance.Botswana Craft also plays a role in cultural tourism, attracting visitors seeking authentic, high-quality products. The on-site restaurant offers traditional Botswana cuisine, allowing visitors to savor local flavors. The center also hosts cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions, further enriching the visitor experience. By blending tradition with modernity, Botswana Craft ensures the continuation of craftsmanship while adapting to evolving tastes.In addition to supporting local artisans, Botswana Craft also imports crafts from other Southern African countries and developing communities worldwide. This aligns with their motto of “Sharing Culture”.