Dry Goods Trade explores the complex journey of traditional Himba products from remote Namibian communities to urban markets, examining the economic, social, and cultural implications of this trade. It highlights how the integration of Himba crafts into global markets, while offering economic opportunities, simultaneously poses risks to cultural heritage and social structures.
The book delves into the commodification of Himba culture, focusing on how “authenticity” is marketed and the challenges faced by Himba women at the forefront of this trade. The book offers a nuanced perspective on globalization's impact on indigenous communities, particularly the Himba people, whose traditional economy revolves around cattle herding and handcrafted goods.
It also investigates the sustainability of traditional production practices amidst market pressures, questioning the long-term viability of resource extraction. Through fieldwork and interviews, the book systematically analyzes these issues, starting with an introduction to the Himba and their economic practices, then tracing the journey of specific products to urban markets. The analysis progresses through marketing strategies, the roles of Himba women, and the environmental impacts, ultimately proposing strategies for fair trade and cultural preservation.
