December 2, 2024

The Government of Eswatini, through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Trade (MoCIT) – Handicraft Department, has launched the first-ever National Handicraft Sector Policy. This landmark policy, developed in collaboration with the Eswatini Economic Policy Analysis and Research Centre (ESEPARC), aspires to transform the handicraft industry into a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive contributor to the national economy. It offers a strategic roadmap for sectoral growth and a framework for collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society.

The policy’s launch, held at the George Hotel in Manzini, gathered a wide array of stakeholders, including handicraft business leaders, senior government officials, development partners such as the Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), artisans, and other key players in the sector.

Principal Handicraft Officer Mrs. Zodwa Vilakati opened the event with a comprehensive overview of the sector’s background, challenges, and past achievements. She described the fragmented nature of the industry, which has long grappled with insufficient financing and limited global market access. Despite these barriers, the sector has made meaningful contributions to Eswatini’s tourism industry and rural livelihoods. Vilakati emphasized that the new policy is both timely and necessary, aiming to address existing gaps and unlock the full potential of Eswatini’s rich handicraft heritage

A Sector Poised for Change

Mrs. Grace Dlamini, an experienced and passionate trade hub representative, shared heartfelt appreciation for the Ministry’s support. Celebrating the resilience and creativity of Eswatini’s artisans, she praised their ability to produce exceptional products despite resource constraints. Dlamini also highlighted the sector’s role in addressing social and economic challenges, including waste management and sustainability. She called on artisans to embrace the opportunities created by the policy while fostering innovation and passing down skills to future generations.

The Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) reflected on decades of collaboration, including the Taiwan Technical Mission’s work with the National Handicraft Training Centre from 1973 to 2015. These efforts empowered over 1,000 artisans through programs in leather crafting, woodwork, and more. Highlighting the success of the 2021–2023 Capacity Building Project for Grassroots Craft Producers, the Ambassador noted its role in improving export readiness and creating economic opportunities. He expressed optimism about the policy’s potential to protect women from exploitation through structured and transparent practices. As a symbol of partnership, the Ambassador unveiled a Ligcebesha adorned with the Taiwan and Eswatini flags, emphasizing the shared commitment to a sustainable future for handicrafts.

A Vision for Growth

Honorable Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Trade, Mr. Manqoba Khumalo, outlined ambitious plans to expand the sector’s infrastructure. “We will be working to double the size of the trading hub in Manzini within two years and establish regional hubs,” he announced. The Minister underscored the importance of fair regulations to ensure artisans benefit equitably from their work.

He celebrated the sector’s international achievements, including awards won in Paris, and stressed the need for national pride in local artisans’ successes. The Minister also highlighted the policy’s alignment with the Citizens Economic Empowerment Act, advocating for government procurement of local artwork to support artisans further.

Looking forward

ESEPARC’s Senior Research Fellow, Ms. Tengetile Hlophe, presented the National Handicraft Sector Policy, detailing its vision and nine strategic pillars. Key focus areas include promoting handicrafts in local and global markets, ensuring equitable revenue streams for artisans, and fostering linkages with sectors like agriculture, tourism, ICT, and education. Hlophe outlined a robust implementation plan involving state-owned enterprises, private businesses, development partners, and training institutions. The Ministry will lead resource mobilization efforts and establish a dedicated monitoring and evaluation team to ensure progress aligns with national development goals. The National Handicraft Sector Policy marks a pivotal step in redefining Eswatini’s handicraft industry, fostering inclusivity, sustainability, and economic growth while celebrating the nation’s rich artistic heritage.

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