The Oguntoro Challenge

Centuries-long traditions are now met with lack of interest due to its tedious nature and the physical toll it takes on the body. Taking up to three days to weave a single piece, the average weaver as she gets older, is found to suffer from back pain, joint aches, arthritis, osteoporosis etc. To ensure safety across the fashion industry chain, innovators and industrial designers are invited to take a critical look at The Oguntoro (traditional Ebira weaving loom), and come up with a modernised version that will maintain its essential structure, values, aesthetics and means of livelihoods.