Download our report: Namibia Cultural Relations: Pathways to Sustainable Growth and Market Development
The Namibian craft sector supports up to 10,000 crafters and their families, many based in rural or marginalised communities. Historically rooted in cultural heritage and traditional skills, the sector has evolved into a key driver of job creation, women’s empowerment and sustainable local economies.
Recognising the significant progress of the craft sector in the past decade and its untapped potential, the Delegation of the European Union to Namibia and the Cultural Relations Platform launched the EU-Namibia Craft to strengthen Namibia’s craft ecosystem.
The project was implemented in two phases. Phase One concentrated on the development of an in-depth assessment of the Namibian craft sector. Drawing on market research, analysis of 12 high-performing enterprises and stakeholder consultations conducted between December 2024 and February 2025, the resulting report“Namibia Cultural Relations: Pathways to Sustainable Growth and Market Development” outlines a strategic framework for sustainable growth
The study focuses on the Khomas and Zambezi regions, where long-established craft centres generate income for more than 4,500 artisans. It finds that businesses combining commercial discipline with a social mission achieve the greatest sustainability and impact. It presents concrete business opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and offers actionable recommendations to strengthen the value chainwhile addressing critical gaps identified during the assessment. These recommendations include enhancing existing enterprises, supporting market development, stimulating craft sector storytelling, enabling the creative development of craft groups and artisans, and the establishing of the Namibian Craft Design Institude (NCDI).
Phase Two involved carrying out a series of activities focused on training and skills development for craft makers in the country. A combination of capacity building activities, training of trainers and visibility and networking events were carried out from April – August 2025. The objective is to contribute to the sustainable development of the craft sector, promoting local entrepreneurship, improving livelihoods and strengthening Namibia’s creative economy in line with national development priorities.
This publication provides a roadmap for government institutions, investors, development partners, buyers, and sector organisations seeking to engage with Namibia’s creative economy.
Download the report to explore key findings and recommendations for sustainable growth and market development in Namibia’s craft sector.