Traditional Craftsmen Call for Dedicated Space in Manama Souq

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com   

A group of traditional craftsmen have appealed to the authorities through our sister newspaper Alayam to allocate a dedicated space for their crafts in Manama Souq.

These crafts, once a prominent feature of the old market, have dwindled in recent decades due to the decline of the souq's economic situation.

The craftsmen have submitted a letter to the Ministry of Tourism and the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, requesting the allocation of a dedicated space.

They are hopeful their proposal will be considered in the new project to revitalise Manama, a project initiated by His Majesty the King and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

This project aims to comprehensively redevelop the historic area of Manama Souq, preserving its historical and cultural identity while addressing infrastructure needs.

Mr. Murtaza Al Saken, head of the Manama Craftsmen's Association, emphasised the importance of establishing a dedicated market for Bahraini crafts within Manama Souq.

He highlighted its significance as a historical and cultural landmark, showcasing the Kingdom's heritage and attracting tourists and foreigners alike.

Al Saken stressed the importance of this request, particularly considering the strategic location of Bab Al Bahrain in Manama, which serves as a major tourist attraction.

Al Saken revealed that the proposal was initially presented to the Minister of Tourism, Ms. Fatima bint Jaffer Al Sairafi, during a meeting with 12 Bahraini craftsmen last year.

The crafts represented in the proposal include Arabic calligraphy, pottery, weaving, baskets, leatherwork, Dilmun seals, shipbuilding, henna art, and fishing nets.

Currently, most of the craftsmen affiliated with the Ministry of Social Development are spread across the Craftsmen's Complex in Karbabad and Al Jasra, with some operating in Manama Souq.

Al Saken, representing the group of craftsmen, appealed to the leadership to consider their request for a dedicated market for traditional crafts in Manama.