A loincloth's traditional know-how can be distinguished by its weaving methods and raw material in Côte d'Ivoire. It is made from cotton yarn dyed in various colors by the communities of Gouro, Baoulé, Malinké, Sénoufo, Koulango, nafana, and abron. Weavers weave narrow strips on hand looms designed by themselves, which are then assembled together to create variously patterned loincloths. Traditionally, these woven loincloths are used for weddings, celebrations, funerals, etc.). Senufo cosmology and symbols of animals, including the hornbill, panther, and turtle, are represented in the patterns. Practitioners are also bearers. Loom manufacturers, weavers, carders, spinners, dyers, weavers, embroiderers, and dressmakers are all part of them. They form close-knit groups. Holders of knowledge and know-how are responsible for transferring their knowledge and know-how to others. Often, it is done by family members.
Traditional knowledge related to the weaving of loincloths is an intangible component of Côte d'Ivoire's intangible cultural heritage. Its inclusion on the representative list will increase public awareness of this traditional craft and boost its public image. To ensure the element's viability, the communities involved maintain it on a daily basis. Their performances are regularly included in regional parties, events, and cultural festivals, domestic and international. Through the assistance of external partners, some communities have built centers for the practice of weaving as well as the transfer of knowledge to young people. Although modern synthetic fiber fabrics have proliferated, weavers have continued to practice their craft. In order to revitalize a practice that was threatened with extinction, young nafana of Soko were sent for training with Malinké weavers in Waraniéné.
Besides creating the Palm Garden in Divo in 2014 to ensure the viability of the element, the Association for the Renovation of the Culture of Dida (ARCULDI) also takes actions to preserve rattan, oil palm, and raffia palm, raw materials needed to make Dida woven loincloths. Communities around cotton fields have created cotton fields. To prevent counterfeiting of their traditional loincloths and painted canvases, the Federation of Weavers of the Grand Center and Senufo painters of Fakaha have filed patents with the Ivorian Office of Intellectual Property (OIPI). Through the Djaka festival, the dida community of Loh-Djiboua commits to labeling the dida loincloth with OIPI. As well as cooperating, toddlers are taught to ensure this viability. Regulators and institutions face constraints in terms of popularizing texts, enforcing the law, promoting visibility, funding, and supporting traditional weaving skill promoters. |Subject=Art, Craftsmanship and Practices |Country=Cote d'Ivoire |SDG=(08) Decent Work and Economic Growth, (11) Sustainable Cities and Communities }}