Training opens doors for women artisans

ARUSHA: AN Arusha-based jewellery entrepreneur, Ms Aurelia Venus, who is turning traditional weaving into a growing business, says women handicraft industry stand to benefit from expanding vocational training opportunities.

Ms Venus, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Curiosity in Art, began her journey by making simple handcrafted pieces from locally available materials, gradually turning her passion into a business as demand for her products grew.

She said initiatives by the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) are equipping women with practical skills, modern tools and entrepreneurial knowledge needed to improve the quality and market value of handmade products.

“These programmes are opening doors for many women by providing training that helps them refine their craft and build sustainable businesses,” she said in an interview.

She further said that through VETA, women are learning a wide range of skills including weaving, tailoring, pottery and beadwork, alongside modern design techniques that make their products more competitive in today’s market.

According to her, vocational training institutions play a crucial role in preparing women for self-employment by offering hands-on experience in areas such as tailoring, carpentry and electrical work, enabling graduates to either start their own ventures or secure jobs.

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Ms Venus said the government’s efforts come at the right time, as global demand for authentic, eco-friendly and culturally inspired products continues to grow, creating opportunities for Tanzanian handicrafts in both local and international markets.

“With the right support in marketing, financing and technology, the handicraft industry can create employment for many women and contribute significantly to inclusive economic growth,” she said.

At Curiosity in Art, Ms Venus designs and produces handcrafted woven jewellery, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings and hair accessories, blending traditional artistry with modern styles.

Looking ahead, she plans to expand her market reach by listing her products on Etsy, an international e-commerce platform that connects artisans with global customers, as part of efforts to make her products more accessible digitally.