Oodi Weavers blossoms despite challenges
Friday, November 08, 2019
Oodi Weavers PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
Started in 1972 as a community project, by artist (sculptor and painter) Swede Peder Gowenius, Oodi Weavers continues running after more than 40 years of existence. The tapestry business in Oodi consists mostly of elderly women (age ranging from 33-89) from three neighbouring villages of Oodi, Matebele and Modipane in Kgatleng.
The women have been able to fend for their families from here over the years, with some having been part of the cooperative for over 60 years.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...