Road Construction and Handicraft Production in the Xade Area, Botswana

Abstract

This paper aims to clarify the involvement of people living in the Xade area in roadwork and in the handicraft production. The total amount of wages and craft sales paid in the area approximately 3600 pula, 1200 pula per month, respectively. The laborers are employed without difference in pay exists between the sexes and ethnic groups. The San prefer to manufacture hunting tool kits, and the Kgalagadi purchase skins, from the San to make bags with fasteners. Despite the opportunity for high cash earning from them, there are very few people who continue in either of these jobs. For San people who prefer not to commit themselves to a lifestyle involving long-term methodical work, this is a reflection of the San's preference for a flexible subsistence lifestyle.