Poverty alleviation is a key item on the agenda of both government and non-governmental
organisations. The use of indigenous knowledge to embark on small and medium size
enterprises (SMEs) such as handicraft making has shown that it has a potential to yield the
desired outcome in many areas. The research addressed the question: to what degree are
handicrafts made in the Lowveld region of Swaziland and to what extent do these handicrafts
contribute towards the livelihood of rural households? The data was collected using
questionnaires and observations.
Findings revealed that the production of handicrafts is the second most important livelihood
activity for most respondents. Even though the income received from these activities is small, its
significance lies in the timing at which it is received; and on its role in supporting existing
livelihood activities. Sustainability of the business is, however, threatened by inaccessibility of
resources, lack of organisation and trading challenges
There is a need to promote the cultivation of natural resources, continuous training workshops
and for women to form cooperatives or groups.
Further research is needed that would focus on the following areas: a comparative study done
in urban areas which shall also investigate the impact of handicraft on urban poor households; a
study which will focus on handicraft marketing and consumption and lastly on the youth and
handicraft.