In the heart of Zimbabwe, nestled within the village of Binga, a remarkable form of traditional craftsmanship thrives through the hands of local women. These artisans, dedicate their skills to the creation of the exquisite Tonga Baskets, or as kanju likes to call them The Binga Wall Baskets. Known for their unique beauty and practical use, these baskets are not just objects of utility but are woven narratives of culture, tradition, and resilience.
The primary material for these baskets is the ilala palm, a shrub indigenous to the region. This plant grows freely in the wild, painting the landscape with its presence, and in recent years, has been consciously re-planted to support the enduring craft of basket weaving. The ilala palm provides the raw material that is transformed, through skillful hands, into the beautifully crafted Binga Baskets.
At the core of the Binga Baskets' creation are the women artisans. They are the custodians of this traditional craft, passed down through generations. These skilled weavers not only keep the tradition alive but also innovate within its bounds to create pieces that are both unique and reflective of their heritage.
Each basket begins with a distinctive woven square at its center, serving as the foundation from which the rest of the basket is skillfully crafted. Despite this common starting point, every Binga Basket emerges as a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, boasting its own weave patterns, colors, and sizes.
Creating a Binga Basket is a time-intensive process, taking up to two weeks to complete, depending on its size. This meticulous labor of love imbues each basket with a character that is perfectly imperfect, akin to a work of art. Yet, these baskets are not just for admiration; they serve practical purposes in the daily lives of the Binga community, from harvesting crops to winnowing grain.
For the women of Binga, basket making and other crafts such as beading, pottery, and drum-making are more than just cultural expressions; they are vital sources of income. In a region challenged by drought and poverty, these crafts provide a sustainable way for women to support themselves and their families. The export of these handmade goods not only brings much-needed economic support but also shares a piece of Tonga culture with the world.
The Binga Baskets of Zimbabwe are a testament to the resilience, creativity, and skill of the women who weave them. Each basket, with its unique design and story, connects the Tonga community of Binga with global admirers and collectors. These woven beauties are not just items of practical use but symbols of a rich cultural heritage being preserved and celebrated through the art of basket weaving.
In purchasing a Tonga Basket, one not only acquires a piece of art but also supports the sustenance of traditional craftsmanship and the livelihood of the artisans behind them. It's a connection woven through strands of ilala palm, reaching across continents, bringing together the stories of Binga and the world beyond.
Shop our full collection of wall baskets.
