Staff Reporter
The European Union (EU), under the EU–Namibia Craft Project, hosted a workshop aimed at empowering craft entrepreneurs from the Khomas and Zambezi regions by helping them grow their businesses and develop their skills.
The training, held from 28–30 April and 6–8 May, was supported by the Cultural Relations Platform. Twaku Kayofa, Public and Communications Officer at the EU Delegation to Namibia, explained that the workshop covered key practical areas including product development, pricing, packaging, and storytelling.
Kayofa emphasised that participants gained valuable hands-on experience in transforming their creative ideas into market-ready products, with a particular focus on jewellery, beadwork, and corporate gifts.
Photos: EU Delegation to Namibia.
“Crafts connect heritage with innovation. It is about more than what we make with our hands – it’s about telling stories, preserving identities, and creating livelihoods. This workshop has helped build those foundations. We are investing NAD 1 million to support local crafters in the Khomas and Zambezi regions. The workshop helps artisans build confidence, refine their products, and open new markets for their work,” said Ian Dupont, Deputy Head of Mission at the EU Delegation.
Annie Symonds, senior lead consultant for the workshop, echoed Mr Dupont’s sentiments. “The training is not just about what artisans can make. It is about how they think about their craft, how they price and package it, and most importantly, how they share their unique stories. This is about building sustainable businesses based on culture and creativity,” Symonds said.
The sessions were led by facilitators Anabel Loubser and Gabi Woker, with assistance from Klara Loubser. Key collaborators included the City of Windhoek, the Namibia Arts Association, Penduka Village, and Emergo Communications.
The next phase of training is scheduled for June 2025 in the Zambezi Region, with a focus on business development and a “training of trainers” workshop centred on crafts such as pottery, basket weaving, wood carving, and textiles. Plans are also underway to partner with academic institutions and local craft centres to ensure sustained support and knowledge exchange.
