‘National handicraft sector poised for sustainable economic growth’

Mutsawashe Mashandure and Obey Musiiwa

Herald Correspondents

THE national handicraft sector is poised for sustainable economic growth in 2025, Women Affairs, Community and Small and Medium Enterprises Development Permanent Secretary Dr Mavis Sibanda has said.

Addressing stakeholders during a strategic review and planning workshop at the Mandel Training Centre in Harare yesterday, Dr Sibanda underscored the importance of the handicraft sector and community heritage in driving economic development.

“To effectively develop and market handicrafts both locally and internationally, collaboration among the Ministry, the National Handicraft Development and Marketing Centre, and all stakeholders is crucial,” she said.

Dr Sibanda called for the creation of strategic documents to guide the Centre’s initiatives in 2025, ensuring a clear and co-ordinated approach to promoting Zimbabwean handicrafts.

She praised the Centre for its role in preserving Zimbabwe’s cultural identity, noting, “As a beacon of Zimbabwean creativity, the Centre is dedicated to showcasing the artistry and skill of passionate craftsmen and women from various provinces, including the youth.”

The Centre aims to collect, promote and market unique crafts, such as the renowned Binga basket, to a global audience.

Dr Sibanda urged stakeholders to align their plans with national development blueprints, including Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1.

“This alignment will ensure that our activities meet the identified needs of crafters, communities and related sectors,” she said.

Dr Sibanda emphasised the need for active participation and constructive discussions, invoking President Mnangagwa’s mantra, “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo,” which calls for collective national development.

Board chairperson of the Handicraft Centre, Councillor Sandra Ndebele, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the need to revive the industry in line with the President’s vision of making Zimbabwe open for business.

“As we aim to fulfil Vision 2030 of an upper-middle-income society, close collaboration with our parent ministry for policy guidance is crucial,” she said.

Clr Ndebele urged her team to engage fully in the strategic planning processes ahead.

“As Helen Keller once said, ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.’ Together we will pave the way for a brighter future for the National Handicrafts Centre,” she added.

Clr Ndebele said the centre has not had a functional board since 2017, making this strategic planning session a crucial first step in establishing a new vision for the organisation.

“The task before us is indeed a mammoth one. However, I am confident that our minister has appointed a capable board with experienced individuals who bring a wealth of knowledge to help turn this organisation around,” she said.

As the national handicraft sector prepares for a transformative year ahead, the commitment to sustainability and collaboration stands as a beacon of hope for economic growth and cultural preservation in Zimbabwe.