Traditional Craft Revitalization Specialist Job Vacancy in Makgadikgadi, Botswana – Cultural Preservation & Tourism

Job Description

Position: Traditional Craft Revitalization Specialist

Company: Botswana Handicraft Association

Location: Makgadikgadi, Botswana

Experience: 3-5 years in cultural preservation or artisanal development

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Arts, Cultural Studies, or related field

Employment Type: Full-Time

Industry: Cultural Preservation & Tourism

Department: Craft Development

Salary: 150,000 – 200,000 SSP

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

The Botswana Handicraft Association is a national organization dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional crafts as a cornerstone of Botswana’s cultural identity and sustainable tourism. With a mission to empower local artisans and revitalize indigenous craftsmanship, the association collaborates with communities to create economic opportunities while safeguarding heritage. As a leader in cultural preservation, the organization has partnered with international institutions like UNESCO to advance artisanal development across Southern Africa.

Job Overview

This role focuses on revitalizing traditional craft practices in the Makgadikgadi region, a hub for San and Tswana artisanal traditions. The specialist will work directly with local communities to document, preserve, and modernize traditional crafts such as beadwork, basket weaving, and leatherwork. The position emphasizes sustainable practices and market access for artisans, aligning with Botswana’s national cultural preservation strategy.

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Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field research to document traditional craft techniques and materials
• Design training programs for artisans to enhance skills and product quality
• Develop partnerships with tourism operators to promote craft sales
• Create digital archives of endangered craft practices
• Organize cultural workshops for schools and tourists
• Monitor market trends to advise artisans on product diversification

Required Skills

• Expertise in cultural heritage documentation methodologies
• Fluency in Setswana and English
• Experience with CAD software for craft design
• Strong project management and community engagement skills
• Knowledge of e-commerce platforms for artisanal sales
• Ability to conduct impact assessments for cultural projects

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Cultural Studies, Anthropology, or related field
• Postgraduate qualification in Cultural Preservation preferred

Experience

• 3-5 years in cultural preservation or artisanal development
• Proven experience managing community-based projects
• History of successful grant applications for cultural initiatives

Salary

150,000 – 200,000 SSP per annum, commensurate with experience.

Benefits

• Annual cultural immersion training program
• Fieldwork equipment allowance
• Health insurance covering traditional medicine consultations
• 15 days annual leave for cultural research
• Professional development stipend

Training

• 3-month onboarding program covering Botswana’s cultural heritage
• Certification in Ethical Craft Documentation
• Workshops on sustainable material sourcing
• Annual refresher courses in digital archiving techniques

Working Environment

The role involves a mix of office work in Makgadikgadi and fieldwork in remote villages. Candidates must be prepared for irregular hours during cultural festivals and able to work in both modern facilities and traditional community spaces. The position requires frequent travel to craft markets across Botswana.

Application Process

Submit your CV and a 500-word statement on cultural preservation philosophy to the Botswana Handicraft Association. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a practical assessment involving craft documentation techniques. Finalists will participate in a community engagement simulation with local artisans.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Preference will be given to candidates with direct experience in San cultural practices.