Drawings for cultural identity : documentation of the Kiga blacksmith products in Kabale district.

Abstract

The historical craft of blacksmithing stands as the basis of human achievement within Kabale District, Uganda, and has thrived as a vibrant practice. Axes, hoes, pangas, spears, and knives arose as products of resourceful blacksmithing, breathing new life into scrap metal. This study's focal point was the preservation and celebration of this unique heritage, capturing the essence of the Kiga blacksmith's creations through artistic renderings. This endeavour serves as a channel for safeguarding both posterity and cultural identity within Kabale District, Africa. Amidst the region's communities, particularly during the sorghum harvesting season, the utilitarian and enduring usefulness of blacksmith products has been evident. The study posited the objectives to establish the current practice of the blacksmith among the Kiga community in Kabale District; explore various narratives to develop sketches inspired by the Kiga blacksmith practice for cultural identity; and analyze the narratives and produce drawings that promote the cultural identity and posterity of the Kiga blacksmith. As a response, this research endeavored to strengthen and spread cultural heritage, supported by stakeholders and institutions dedicated to nurturing culture. This initiative aligns harmoniously with Agenda 2063, Aspiration 5 (2015), which envisions an Africa enriched by a unified cultural identity, shared values, and historical ethics. Additionally, the insights generated contribute to Uganda's 2019 National Culture Policy, promoting youth empowerment in cultural preservation and indigenous knowledge across communities. This report takes readers on an immersive journey into the land of the Kiga community's blacksmithing practices within Kabale District. This study was hinged on a design using the ethnographic lens and most of the data collected was purely descriptive and through sketches and drawings created by the researcher. The researcher used in-depth interviews, participant observation, photography and focus group discussion as data collection methods. Largely, findings indicated that the activity of blacksmithing brought about economic sustainability and thus needed to remain one of the viable and sustainable economic activities in Kabale District, contributing to the local economy and providing livelihoods. Therefore, the study recommended activation of current Policy Support for cultural institutions and funding by the government to protect and promote the cultural heritage of Kiga blacksmithing. This can include financial assistance for the preservation and restoration of traditional blacksmithing work environments, the incorporation of machine-powered tools, not just charcoal, to ease the production process, the establishment of cultural centres, and the inclusion of blacksmithing in educational curricula to ensure the posterity of the practice.