Kraal - an Afrikaan word for an enclosure for cattle or other livestock.

It is understood that cattle and livestock are safe from predators when (together) inside the kraal. This afternoon, we visited the Kraal Gallery where South African weavers crocheted beautiful works of art right before our eyes. The image of a safe haven is what is intended by using the term kraal in the name of the gallery - a safe place to learn, create, and move forward.  

We met with the owner of the Kraal Gallery, Frank Daniel, who explained that he began this establishment as a way to provide much-needed income to South African women from impoverished areas.

Once the women arrive at the gallery, they are taught the art of crocheting; a trade they can take with them when they move on from the Kraal Gallery. Many of these women are supporting several children and – through the sale of bags, beautiful carpets, and wall hangings – they are able to provide food, housing, and educations for their families.

Travelling on the outskirts of the major cities and visiting some of the townships, it was not difficult to see that unemployment and poverty are major problems in this country. The Kraal Gallery is just one unique way to help address the global concern of poverty, by providing training and a sustainable income source for many women. In fact, Mr. Daniel’s efforts have been so successful that there are plans to open more Kraal Galleries around the world, including the US.  

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