Joel Tsvakwi
LUPANE women have said the depletion of ilala (palm tree) is a cause of concern as it may have a negative impact on their weaving business.
Illala is used to produce an assortment of products like handbags, door mats, trays, baskets, winnowing and many other trendy handy artifacts.
Ilala is fast depleting due to deforestation.
“Ilala is now scarce out there because there is an increase of people, especially women who are into the weaving business.
“If left unchecked this can create grave consequences for our thriving business because without ilala our business will be doomed,” she said.
Tryvinia Mlilo, 63 who is a member of the Lupane Development Trust shared how they go about harvesting ilala in the woodlands of Lupane.
“We harvest the illa leaves deep down in the Lupanda area. It is not easy as we risk snake bites snakes as we harvest ilala. We leave our homes early in the morning around 0500hrs because it is easy to harvest it in the morning while it’s still damp,” she said.
Like many others who spoke to The Zambezi Times news crew, Nyathi is happy about the benefits of being part of the Lupane development Trust.
“On a good month, I can earn an average of $35000.00 which is good enough for my household upkeep,” she said.
Emmel Ncube, 74 weighed in, adding that young girls also need to be taught the skill of weaving.
“Honestly, something needs to be done to preserve Ilala,” she said.
“It’s fortunate that the younger generation does not value weaving. I believe if they are taught weaving skills they will be better positioned to penetrate the trendy and versatile fashion industry.
“It’s a pity that these girls would want to join us as a last resort when they become single mothers,” lamented Ncube.
She added: “I am a widow but since my husband died, I have managed to sustain the needs of my family and that of my extended family.”
