‘Ikhoba celebrates 40 years

    - 2023-02-17 12:11:00
The Omba Gallery at the Namibia Craft Centre currently plays host to an exhibition of embroidered products created by the 'Ikhoba Project.
The ‘Ikhoba Project was established in 1983 when the Lacheiner sisters began making children’s clothing inspired by local Namibian styles. The handcrafted items were popular, leading the sisters to employ the wives of farm workers to produce unique African-style embroidery that provided the women with independence and allowed them to contribute to their families.
The ‘Ikhoba Project became a sustainable market for the women’s embroidered products and quickly gained recognition for their high-quality craftsmanship.
Over the years, the ‘Ikhoba Project has received numerous awards and recognition for its work, including a Gold Medal for highest standard of embroidered textiles at the international Handwerksmesse in Munich, Germany.
In 2006, the project moved to Swakopmund and currently employs around 250 women who live in Otjiwarongo and the surrounding areas. The embroidered goods are sold at the Namibia Craft Centre and four shops in Swakopmund, as well as in lodges throughout Namibia.
In 2011, Mildred von Frankenberg-Lüttwitz joined the project, bringing new ideas and perspectives to the team while ensuring the artwork produced by each artist retains their inherent freedom of expression. She also started the annual “Christmas in July” exhibition in the Omba Gallery in 2012.
The ‘Ikhoba Project is more than just a business; it is a legacy of empowerment, tradition, and creativity that has had a lasting impact on the lives of the women involved and the Namibian community.
Mildred, who grew up with the ‘Ikhoba Project, has always been inspired by their creativity and the positive impact the project has had on their lives, and also serves as an inspiring example of how a simple idea can create a positive impact and transform lives. The project stands as a testament to the power of creativity, tradition, and empowerment, and its legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
View the exhibition until 28 February 2023.