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Matabbeki Mudenda-Binga Craft Centre manager shows some of the craft work which has found a ready market overseas recently

Kiyapili Sibanda, Business Reporter
ART and craft sector players have found a niche for export markets through the use of digital media to engage different product buyers.

This emerged during a ZimTrade digital and online marketing programme for arts and craft in Bulawayo on Friday.

Participants at the event said social media platforms have opened an avenue for them to penetrate the export markets.

Lupane Womens’ Development Trust manager, Mrs Hildegard Mufukare, said the use of online media has enabled them to get foreign orders.

She said these platforms were easy to use and affordable hence they have managed to adapt very quickly.

“The use of different internet platforms has enabled us to open foreign exports market. As I am speaking right now October to December we have orders that are close to $25 000 and we should work on those orders before year end,” said Mrs Mufukare.

She later told Business Chronicle that the global village provides many opportunities that local businesses can tap into.

Mrs Mufukare also said the online platforms were helpful in product development as producers can engage with different clients through the internet.

“We are living in a global village so it is now easy to penetrate into the export markets. It cuts travelling costs. For example, if one wants to travel to Europe to market their products. In the global village it is easy to connect with people who can help you develop the products that can meet international standards,” she said

A representative of Femina Garments encouraged art and craft sector players to make use of social media platforms like Facebook as it was cheap and easily accessible.

Meanwhile, ZimTrade associate trainer Mr Steven Mudawarima said embracing new technologies requires entrepreneurs to work with young people to build synergies. – @Kiyaz_Cool