Zulu Telephone Wire Baskets


Our telephone wire baskets are sourced directly from the Kwa-Zulu people in South Africa. A proud people and a proud nation, poverty and hopelessness of the local community touched and moved us to take action to restore hope and pride to the people.

With an unemployment rate in excess of 80% it is extremely important that jobs are created in the area allowing for healthcare, schooling and food provision. The baskets are mainly woven by the men and since 2002 over 400 men have been trained in this art, some relying on it as a full time job, others in addition to their existing job.

The telephone wire basket industry was created in the 60's where in Zulu tradition, at wedding ceremonies, beer would be brewed, and covered by woven grass baskets. These historically blew off in the wind and the solution was to weave telephone wire baskets as they are a lot heavier and didn't blow away in the wind.



There are numerous weaving techniques used when making these baskets, fill information can be found in our resource center. Our telephone wire baskets are also available to buy online, each basket pictured is the one you will receive. All of our basket weavers are paid directly and are involved in a community scheme whereby all of the community benefits as well as the individuals who make these exceptional pieces.

The telephone wire for the baskets is donated by the large telecommunications companies, who in turn receive a small subsidy (due to the rise in the price of copper) from the South African government. You will also notice that each telephone wire basket smells distinctly of smoke, this is due to the reliance on fire in rural Africa. This smell adds authenticity and character to every piece.
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