𝐊𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐁𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐨 𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩

…𝑰𝒈𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑬𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒄 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑺𝒐𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝑻𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑻𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝑩𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒐𝒐 𝑭𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒓

By Kezang Choden

Residents of Kalapang Chiwog, Saling Gewog under Mongar Dzongkhag, are making strides in bamboo craftsmanship by producing furniture and decorative items such as sofas, tables, basket, beds, and lampshades. The initiative, which began in 2023 with support from the Tarayana Foundation, has not only empowered the women economically but also brought recognition to their craft across the country.

The project, initially launched to promote sustainable livelihoods, trained six women and four men from the Chiwog. The group generates an annual income of Nu 132,000. With the skills acquired through Tarayana’s training programs, the group has successfully established a thriving business. Their bamboo furniture has attracted a substantial market, with orders pouring in from various Dzongkhags.

The initiative has proven to be a transformative experience for the participants, particularly the women, who now play a significant role in supplementing their family incomes. The group operates collaboratively, ensuring quality and timely delivery of products. Their furniture, known for its durability and aesthetic appeal, has gained a reputation for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design.

Kinley, the Tshogpa of Kalapang Chiwog, shared that this enthusiasm is driven by a desire to acquire new skills and generate additional income for their households. According to the Tshogpa, the ongoing bamboo craft training has not only sparked curiosity but has also fostered a sense of empowerment among women in the community. “The women here are eager to learn and explore different types of bamboo products. Under the guidance of their trainer, they are being taught to create a variety of items, ranging from household essentials to decorative pieces,” Kinley said.

He emphasized the importance of promoting gender equality in skill development. “Women in our community are showing that they are just as capable as men when it comes to mastering new skills. This training is an opportunity for them to demonstrate their ability and contribute meaningfully to their families and society.” The bamboo craft training initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable livelihoods in rural areas. The program aims to harness the abundant bamboo resources in the region while equipping residents with marketable skills.

Dorji Rinchen, the instructor of a bamboo furniture project, expressed his unwavering enthusiasm for teaching and sharing his expertise with anyone willing to learn. “I am always keen to guide and impart my knowledge to those who show interest,” he said, emphasizing the significance of sustainable practices in furniture production. Having undergone specialized training from Tarayana Foundation, Dorji highlighted the project’s primary goal to combat deforestation while promoting the use of bamboo as an eco-friendly alternative. “Bamboo is a remarkable resource. It regenerates quickly, unlike trees that take decades to grow,” he explained, highlighting its environmental benefits.

The furniture project produces high-quality items tailored to customer orders. This demand-driven approach has gained popularity, with orders pouring in from various Dzongkhags across the country. From chairs and tables to intricate decorative pieces, the team is committed to delivering durable and aesthetically pleasing products that align with their vision of sustainability.

By promoting bamboo-based furniture, the project not only reduces pressure on forests but also provides a livelihood for those involved, creating a ripple effect of positive environmental and economic impact. As interest in the project continues to grow, Dorji reiterated his readiness to train more individuals, urging people to join hands in adopting eco-conscious practices. “The more we learn to value and utilize resources like bamboo, the better we can preserve our environment for future generations,” he shared.

Kezang Chungku, a 35-year-old resident of Kalapang Chiwog, has found new economic stability and purpose through the production of bamboo products. For the past three months, she has been working diligently in this craft, a venture that has not only boosted her family’s financial security but also empowered her with a sense of independence. Kezang expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating that the income she earns has significantly improved her family’s livelihood. “I can now support my family without depending on others. It gives me immense satisfaction to know that my hard work contributes to our household needs,” she said. The initiative provides employment on a salary basis, enabling artisans like Kezang to have a consistent and reliable source of income. Beyond the financial benefits, the collaborative nature of the work fosters a sense of community among the women engaged in the craft. “Working with my friends has made this journey even more enjoyable. We learn from each other, and it makes our work feel lighter,” Kezang added.

Bamboo crafting, which involves creating items such as baskets, mats, and other household products, is gaining popularity as a sustainable livelihood option in rural areas. This initiative not only promotes traditional skills but also aligns with Bhutan’s emphasis on eco-friendly and locally sourced materials. For Kezang, it marks a new chapter of economic self-reliance and communal harmony. The bamboo product initiative in Kalapang Chiwog serves as a shining example of how small, community-driven projects can create significant impact, not just in economic terms but also in empowering women and preserving traditional crafts.

Sangay Choden, a 18-year-old resident of Kalapang Chiwog, has expressed immense pride in her role as the youngest worker at a local bamboo craft firm. Breaking away from the traditional dependence on family support, Sangay stands as an inspiring example of youth empowerment and self-reliance in her community. Sangay shared her journey into the world of bamboo craftsmanship with great enthusiasm. “I am very proud of myself because I no longer have to depend on my parents,” she said. Her determination to carve out her own path has not only bolstered her confidence but also highlighted the potential of youth engagement in Bhutan’s growing craft industry. Currently skilled in crafting lampshades and other basic bamboo items, Sangay’s ambitions extend far beyond her current expertise. She expressed a keen interest in expanding her repertoire by learning to produce more intricate and high-value bamboo products such as sofas, tables, chairs, and other furniture. “If I get the opportunity, I want to learn to make more advanced products,” she said, showcasing her eagerness to grow and contribute further to the craft.

Sangay also emphasized the advantages of bamboo as a material, pointing out its durability and exceptional quality. She explained how bamboo not only offers sustainable solutions but also holds the potential for creating aesthetically appealing and long-lasting products. “Bamboo is strong and versatile, and the products made from it can last for years,” she said.