Building a Women's Weaving Cooperative

Since the Mahampy Weavers’ Cooperative was founded in 2019, members have been eager to improve their operations. With the start of Project Mahampy Phase II in September 2022, the women have been attending training to improve their confidence, knowledge, and skills in their departmental roles. Mutual learning, sharing ideas, and collaboration here are key! During the training, Abeline (pictured left) and Gina (right) worked on streamlining processes across the stock department, making sure all products are recorded correctly.

In addition to their hard work in operations, the members have been eager to improve their reading and writing skills. Sessions, taught by Project Coordinator, Paula (pictured), have proven to be very popular! Over 80 members are now attending monthly sessions, meaning the classroom is always filled with ambitious students. Ranging from 20 to over 70 years old, the members have shown that it is never too late to learn.

While the members have been enjoying the benefits of the Weavers’ Cooperative, the team has also been gathering more scientific research for the source of the reeds used for weaving: the mahampy wetlands. To ensure the sustainability of the wetlands and weaving as a livelihood activity, the cooperative have established two studies into the reedbeds focusing on reed regrowth and harvesting methods. Tojorine (pictured) is responsible for recording data for the team that investigates harvesting methods. Together with four other cooperative members, the women will study the wetlands for the next two years aiming to eventually contribute to the development of a conservation management strategy that protects the reedbeds for many future generations of mahampy weavers!