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Rural development through poverty alleviation projects has long been one of the CSIR's main focus areas, and the organisation provides project management skills in several craft-related poverty alleviation projects funded by various government departments and other institutions. "By combining indigenous skills and knowledge with our expertise in technology solutions and marketing, the CSIR assists local communities in sustainable production of craft cultural artifacts. We utilise the richness of tradition and cultural heritage to rejuvenate traditional craft forms in aid of economic development," says Marié Wimmers, manager of CSIR Manufacturing and Materials Technology's(M&Mtek) recently established Poverty Alleviation Management Unit (PAMU).
Tasked with managing and coordinating poverty alleviation projects within CSIR M&Mtek, the PAMU aims to assist in standardising service delivery to stakeholders and clients in the field of poverty alleviation. "We operate in a cross-functional and value-adding capacity to assist M&Mtek and the broader CSIR in ultimately fulfilling our mandate to address government imperatives," says Wimmers.
Articles on display at Decorex will include grass-woven products; traditional clay pots; beaded and embroidered cushion covers, handbags and scarves; beaded lamps and door handles; contemporary and traditional Tsonga jewellery; mohair products and hand-dyed woollen felted bowls. "By combining traditional techniques with contemporary colours, designs and fabrics, these craft products can claim both historical and contemporary relevance," comments Wimmers.
Some of the items featured in the Decorex installation have been exhibited at major international exhibitions and conferences, such as the Craft Imbizo at the World Summit for Sustainable Development in 2002 and the 2003 Tourism Indaba in Durban. Selected products on display at Decorex will be available for sale.
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Issued by: CSIR Manufacturing and Materials Technology. The CSIR is the largest R&D and implementation technology agency in Africa with a track record spanning more than 50 years. Structured around 8 distinct business areas, it delivers innovation and technology solutions in support of its clients and stakeholders. See www.CSIR.co.za or contact +27 12 841 2000.
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