TRIBAL TEXTILES

Founded in 1991, Tribal Textile is a fair trade tourism project that generates a real economic windfall for local communities in a region where employment is scarce. Part of the profits generated are reinvested in the development of a community school. All the lodges in the park can organize the excursion. Between the park and Mfuwe airport, don't miss a visit to this batik workshop, which is certainly one of the best souvenirs to bring back from Zambia. You will be able to watch dozens of local artisans making the batiks. All batiks are 100% cotton and are made entirely by hand. The shimmering colors are obtained with natural pigments from seeds and flowers. Before being painted, the patterns, inspired by the bush (flowers, animals...) and the different village traditions (symbols, dancers, warriors...), are drawn with a starch solution. Each piece produced is a unique creation that bears the signature of its author; some require several days of work. After painting, the fabrics are put in an oven to fix the colors, then washed, dried and finally sewn and ironed. Many items are made this way: cushion covers, tablecloths, tapestries, bags... Often used in the decoration of lodges and restaurants, they can be found in many stores in the country, but at higher prices than those charged here.