Preserving Textile Heritage: An Analysis of Indigenous Weaving Techniques in Central African Rainforest Communities, Niger 2013

The Central African Rainforest communities are home to diverse indigenous weaving techniques that have been practiced for centuries. These textiles not only serve as a means of survival but also embody cultural identity and traditional skills. A qualitative approach was employed through interviews with community elders and artisans, as well as observations at traditional weaving workshops. Ethnographic methods were used to document practices and beliefs surrounding these techniques. Interviews revealed that while there has been a steady decline in the number of young weavers, traditional skills are still actively passed down within families and communities. However, limited formal training opportunities hinder skill transmission. The findings highlight the urgent need for integration of weaving workshops into existing education systems to ensure continuity of these cultural practices. Recommendations include establishing community-based weavers' guilds, incorporating textile techniques in school curricula, and fostering collaborations between artisans and local authorities to promote preservation efforts. Indigenous Textile Weaving, Central African Rainforest, Cultural Heritage, Traditional Skills Transfer