Contribution of woven mudfish basket to the development of weaving in Uganda

Abstract

Mudfish basketry is intertwined with nearly every aspect of Ugandan families, communities, identity, and social memory, but the status of Mudfish baskets is changing due to different challenges specifically the immediate extinction because of the ageing of weavers, has no formal training and no original research has been made on it, which has inspired the researcher to look at practices of weaving, allowing the understanding of mudfish baskets in broader social, economic and historical contexts. The study was guided by three (3) specific research objectives, namely; i) To examine the socio-cultural and economic practices under which mudfish basket weaving has evolved; ii) To analyze the techniques and materials used in mudfish basket weaving; and iii) To create contemporary woven products inspired by traditional mudfish basketry. The study followed a descriptive research design, gathering data from 10 purposefully selected participants, who included fishermen and weavers around the shores of River Mayanja, through interviews. Researcher’s observations and secondary data sources also supplemented the primary data. The data was analyzed through thematic content analysis techniques as well as studio production to illustrate mudfish basket weaving knowledge, techniques, designs, and materials to preserve indigenous knowledge. The study found that the weaving techniques used in weaving mudfish baskets are developed through individual engagement with society, where they get inspiration from those that participate in mudfish basket weaving, thus preserving the skill from extinction. The study concluded that, mudfish basketry emerges not only as a vital cultural heritage but also a source of inspiration for the development of weaving in Uganda. To ensure its continued legacy, the study proposes that weavers draw inspiration from the shores of River Mayanja, adapting mudfish basket materials, techniques, and processes to create diverse contemporary woven products. The study further recommends the use of artificial fibers like nylon code, flexible wires, iron bars and other flexible materials in weaving Mudfish Baskets to make the weaving tradition more innovative. Futher still, the research recommends diversification of woven products. Products like Lampshades, hammocks, swings, mats, and more could be crafted, preserving the essence of mudfish basketry in Uganda’s weaving landscape.