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Manawashi Handicraft Product Development

Organization: Dara Development Organization (DRA) Project: Manawashi Handicraft Product Development Sudan's traditional handicrafts—woven baskets, pottery, leatherwork, palm frond art, and intricate textiles—are more than beautiful objects. They are living heritage, carrying the stories and skills of generations and representing the cultural identity of Sudan's diverse communities . Yet today, this heritage is at risk. Conflict, displacement, and economic collapse have scattered artisan communities, severed the transfer of knowledge from elders to youth, and left skilled craftspeople without materials, markets, or dignified workspaces . Dara Development Organization is establishing the Manawashi Handicraft Product Development Center—a dedicated space where Sudanese artisans can gather, create, learn, and thrive. The center provides: Safe production workspaces with quality tools and equipment Vocational training from master craftspeople to the next generation Product development support to refine designs for contemporary markets while preserving cultural integrity Business skills training in pricing, marketing, and financial management Intellectual property awareness protecting artisans' designs and creativity Market linkages connecting Sudanese crafts to local, national, and international buyers through platforms like MADE51 and "Made in Sudan" Targeted support for women artisans, persons with disabilities, displaced persons, and youth Target Beneficiaries: Women artisans facing barriers to economic participation Internally displaced persons with craft skills Youth seeking sustainable livelihoods Elderly master craftspeople preserving traditional knowledge Persons with disabilities seeking dignified, self-reliant work Expected Outcomes: Endangered craft traditions documented and preserved 200+ artisans generating sustainable income annually Intergenerational skills transfer ensured Market-ready products reaching international buyers Strengthened community resilience through cultural and economic empowerment Your Contribution: $50 - Training materials for one artisan $100 - Business skills training for one artisan $250 - Complete tool kit for one artisan $500 - Support a master artisan to train 10 apprentices $1,000 - Product development for 5 artisans $2,500 - Market access package for artisan products Your support preserves culture, empowers artisans, and builds sustainable livelihoods for Sudan's most vulnerable communities. Donate today. Help us weave a future for Sudan's artisans.

Dara Development Organization