Article Details

Mats are one of the most common and oldest household items, belonging to the class of traditional household items, such as calabashes and drinking cups. Mat-making with intricate designs and utility is a culturally significant craft produced by women in Uturu. The paper documents the empowering impact of mat-making on the lives of the women involved in it. The paper employs a feminist narrative research methodology to analyse the economic experiences of Uturu women. Findings reveal that mat-making significantly empowered Uturu women by providing them with a steady source of income and fostering a sense of identity and continuity, linking past and present generations. In conclusion, the traditional industry of mat-making remains a vital source of economic empowerment and cultural heritage for the women of Uturu. The study recommends continued support and development of traditional crafts, emphasising their potential to contribute to sustainable development and the preservation of cultural identity.

Mat-making, Craft, Uturu women, Cultural Identity,