By Thabisani Dube
HARARE — The Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS) is providing small-scale entrepreneurs with an opportunity to showcase their products and reach potential customers.
ZAS, which this year attracted about 640 exhibitors and thousands of visitors, is running under the theme, “Powering Growth: Where Agriculture, Technology and Commerce Converge.”
Beadwork entrepreneur Francisca is using the platform to market her handmade products, which include bags, bangles, and other beaded accessories.
Francisca told New Ziana at her stand that beadwork had become an important source of income for her.
“I started making beadwork because I wanted to use my skills to generate an income. It has become an important source of livelihood for me and my family,” she said.
Her bags sell for US$12, while bangles start at US$1, with prices depending on the design and materials used.
Francisca said she spends considerable time producing each item, as the work requires patience and attention to detail.
“Making these products takes time because I have to carefully sew the beads together to make sure the final product is strong and attractive,” she said.
She said the income from the business helped her meet household needs.
“I work hard because I know that whatever I make and sell helps me meet some of the needs at home. It may look like a small business, but it means a lot to me,” she said.
However, the entrepreneur said the cost of materials and limited access to customers remain some of the major challenges affecting her business.
“Sometimes it is difficult because beads and other materials are expensive, and I can spend a lot of time making something before finding someone to buy it,” she said.
Francisca said exhibiting at the agricultural show has allowed her to present her products to a wider audience and interact directly with potential customers.
“I would like to have more customers so that I can increase my production and grow the business,” she said.
She said she also hoped to expand her range of products and share her skills with other women.
“My wish is to grow the business, make more designs and reach more customers. I would also like to teach other women these skills so that they can also earn an income,” she said.
The agricultural show continues to provide a platform for small businesses and producers to display locally made products while connecting with potential markets.
For Francisca, the agricultural show is more than just an exhibition space; it is an opportunity to turn her skills into a sustainable livelihood and reach customers beyond her usual market.
