THE DESIGN OF DEVELOPMENTAL APPROACH FOR THE PROMOTION OF TRADITIONAL LEATHER-MADE CRAFTS IN WESTERN SUDAN

Abstract

In an attempt to advance developmental approach for the promotion of traditional leather-made craft, this paper seeks to attain the intended goals through promoting production tools and equipment (appropriate technology) upgrading and qualifying the target group and promoting marketing systems. Technical and managerial skills can be attained, not only by the traditional on-the-job training of apprentices, but most effective and important through schooling, vocational and training centres. Promotion and modernization of production tools and equipments has to begin by eliminating factors impeding the process. Successful approaches for upgrading and qualifying the target group should start from the point where the development of this craftsmanship begins, that is, to consider technical capabilities of these artisans (i.e. to adopt development from below paradigm). In this regard three approaches are proposed for tackling the development of this sector in western Sudan. It turns out, therefore, that the process of development necessitates intervention of governments and other donor agencies (i.e. outsiders). As this sector of these craftsmen is financially and organizationally weak, the stud proposed guidelines to modernize them, in addition to the development of marketing systems.