Binga/Tonga Baskets are hand-woven baskets originating from the Binga area in Zimbabwe. They are traditionally made from wild and cultivated river reeds and other grasses. Binga baskets are unique in that each basket is carefully handwoven by elderly women using a craft perfected from generation to generation.
The baskets are tightly woven and are used for a variety of purposes, including carrying food, storing items, and even as decorative pieces. Binga baskets are known for their intricate patterns, vibrant colours, and unique designs.
The designs of Binga baskets are often symbolic of the culture and history of the Tonga people. The weavers use a range of different materials and patterns to create a variety of shapes and patterns, each of which has a specific meaning. For example, some patterns may represent fertility, while others may symbolize strength and protection. Other designs are used to indicate the owner's social class or status.