Weaving and Its Socio-cultural Values in Ethiopia: A Review

Abstract

This review research work aimed to comprehend and compile the relevant information in the areas of the traditional weaving and its socio-cultural values in Ethiopia. Different empirical literatures were reviewed on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The review revealed the creative ability of weavers’ maintained identity, culture and history of the different ethnic groups’ of the nation. It identified how the traditional woven fabric served as glue for the socio-cultural values in religion, wedding, rituals, among others in the country. The sector is facing challenges like raw material shortage. Higher cost of input, competition from machine fabrics, poor technological support and incentives among others. The sector needs proper care from all the relevant stakeholders to sustain its symbolic role to represent a society. Thus, Practice of conservation and safeguarding of traditional woven fabric as per the protocol of UNESCO and retention of the people engaged in weaving with proper incentives should be employed.