Kapanyi Mponda – Master Basket Weaver from Etsha, Botswana
Kapanyi Mponda was born in 1968 in Etsha 9, Botswana. She is married and a proud mother of three children—two girls and a boy. To support her family and send her children to school, Kapanyi weaves exquisite handwoven baskets, a craft she learned from her mother in the 1970s.
Early Life and Journey into Weaving
Kapanyi’s life has not been easy. She left school after only four years because her parents arranged her marriage at a young age. At just 14, she was married and soon learned to balance family responsibilities with her weaving work. She recalls the early days when basket weavers would line up their creations in the village center overnight, guarding them until they were sold. During that time, food was scarce, and many families depended on basket sales for survival.
Craftsmanship and Style
Over time, Kapanyi’s skills grew, and her baskets became highly sought after. Even when placed at the back of the market queue, her work would sell first because of its exceptional quality. This, however, sometimes led to jealousy from other women. Despite these challenges, Kapanyi remains dedicated to her craft.
Her favorite design is the traditional flower pattern, and she enjoys weaving open baskets because they are quicker to complete. She often uses bold color combinations such as orange and black, which give her pieces a striking and timeless appeal.
Strength and Resilience
Kapanyi’s weaving journey is also a story of resilience. While pregnant, she once went to collect tree bark used for black dye—a process requiring hard, careful labor. During this task, she was attacked by a swarm of bees and stung many times. Despite the pain and fear, she safely delivered a healthy baby girl just days later. This story reflects her strength, determination, and dedication to her craft and family.
Legacy
Kapanyi’s baskets carry more than just intricate patterns; they tell a story of courage, heritage, and survival. Each piece is woven with precision and love, reflecting both her personal journey and the cultural identity of the Etsha weaving community.
