Ethiopia’s Weavers Struggle To Preserve Garment Tradition

Behind the looms of a workshop in the heart of Addis Ababa, dozens of weavers deftly repeat the same motions to craft traditional dresses — a centuries-old skill now threatened by Ethiopia’s economic hardships. For generations, the ‘habesha kemis’ – the traditional Ethiopian dress – has been meticulously woven by skilled artisans, but the industry is facing difficulties. With economic struggles, weavers are finding it harder to sustain their craft, leading to concerns about the future of this tradition. Despite the challenges, the weavers remain dedicated to keeping the art of garment-making alive.