Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
RENOWNED Zimbabwean creative Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi, is proudly flying the national flag high at the ongoing Intra-African Trade Fair in Algeria, where she is showcasing not only her own artistic flair but also the country’s rich heritage of handmade crafts. The celebrated performer is using the international platform to highlight Zimbabwe’s cultural identity and craftsmanship to a global audience.
The trade fair, which has been running from September 4 to today, aims to strengthen intra-African trade through innovation, value addition and green industrialisation. It provides a vital space for networking and for exhibitors to present their products and services to potential buyers and partners from across the continent and beyond.
Speaking during an interview on Business Focus, Ndebele described the intricately woven baskets, beautifully carved wooden pieces, and detailed wirework on display.
“In Algeria, I’m showcasing Zimbabwean handmade products while representing the National Handicraft Centre of Zimbabwe. Our main focus is to promote handmade products from Zimbabwe. Each piece tells a story of Zimbabwe’s history and traditions. I’m a creative in my own right, and I even design the attire I wear for performances or events, with the help of a few fellow creatives I work with,” she said.
She went on to highlight the challenges faced by rural artisans, explaining that many talented creatives in remote villages lack the means to travel internationally and showcase their work.
“I took it upon myself to ensure that every handmade piece from Zimbabwe finds a market. We’re pushing products from various clusters, including basketry from Binga, Lupane, Masvingo and Guruve. Though they may all be baskets, each region has a unique weaving style and grass type, giving each piece a distinct identity.”
Ndebele also presented Zimbabwean wooden products crafted from Mopane, Mutsviti, ironwood and special timber sourced from Matobo and Mutare in Manicaland.
“Our mandate is to secure orders for these products for export, allowing creatives to contribute to Zimbabwe’s GDP while preserving and promoting our culture,” she said.
The response at the trade fair has been overwhelmingly positive, with Ndebele already receiving orders from several attendees — an encouraging sign of strong international interest in Zimbabwean craftsmanship.
