EU-Backed Partnership Launches Eswatini Artisans onto the Global Stage
The event, held recently at the Royal Villas Hotel in Ezulwini, introduced 17 of Eswatini’s artisans to one of the world’s most respected platforms for excellence in craftsmanship. This achievement signals a new era of global visibility for local artisans.
The artisans featured in the 2025 edition represent a diverse cross-section of Eswatini’s creative talent: Siyaphambili Multipurpose Cooperative, Indzaba Yami Multipurpose Cooperative, Madwa, Swazi Candles, Ngwenya Glass, Coral Stephens, Baobab Batik, Tintsaba Masterweavers, Khokho, Quazi Design, Luju Ceramics, JeremPaul, Antonio Langa, Mantsholo Creations, Mnqobi Mnisi, Welcome Mashaba and Favourite Design.
The launch marked the culmination of a multi-year collaboration under the 'Eswatini: Promoting growth through competitive alliances' programme, supported by the EU and implemented by the ITC in partnership with the Government of Eswatini.
With the first 17 artisans now officially published on the Guide, the initiative will continue to expand, with an additional 40 artisans set to join the platform in 2026 and 2027.
During the launch, EU Ambassador to Eswatini, Karsten Mecklenburg, reflected on the significance of this development for Eswatini’s broader creative economy.
EU in Eswatini
“We are excited to know that 17 artisans from Eswatini have been selected to be part of the Homo Faber Guide”, he said. “This milestone is a significant step forward in developing, showcasing and celebrating the creativity of Emaswati, and highlights the crucial role skilled artisans can play in driving economic growth and sustainability.”, Mecklenburg said.
The EU Ambassador to Eswatini also expressed confidence in the long-term impact of this development. “The international market exposure gained through the Homo Faber Guide will help create a more resilient and competitive craftsmanship sector in Eswatini, and we look forward to seeing the impact of these efforts in the years to come,” he said.
Representing the Michelangelo Foundation, Andrea Tomasi, Head of Strategic Relations, shared the Foundation’s enthusiasm in welcoming Eswatini into the global Homo Faber family.
“Today, we are celebrating the first 17 artisan profiles. An additional 40 artisans will be added in 2026 and 2027. We are expanding Eswatini’s presence and representation on the Homo Faber platform,” Tomasi said.
He also described the unique opportunities the Guide offers: “Homo Faber Guide is a tool to source talented artisans and choose partners for professional collaboration. Through this launch, Eswatini’s artisans gain visibility, access to new markets and opportunities to connect with the global craft community, whether commissioning bespoke work, joining apprenticeships or participating in international exhibitions.”
For the artisans, the recognition carries deep personal meaning. Bafanabethu Gina of Favourite Design expressed his excitement for what lies ahead: “I am excited to be part of the Homo Faber Guide. I am particularly excited for the opportunities that are going to come with it and look forward to engaging with the various programs within the guide to grow my craft and creativity.”
Philippa Thorne echoed Gina’s optimism: “We are very excited about this collaboration and look forward to the opportunities that will result from this collaboration.”
The launch event brought together government representatives, artisans, Business Support Organizations, creative institutions and partners in a celebration of Eswatini’s craft heritage and its future potential. With curated exhibitions, presentations and discussions on the sector’s development, the event highlighted a shared commitment to elevating Eswatini’s artisans while creating pathways for youth, communities and future generations to thrive.
With Eswatini officially part of the global Homo Faber network, the world is now poised to discover the creativity, talent and identity of its artisans, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the country’s creative industries.
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About the European Union Delegation to Eswatini
The EU Delegation to Eswatini is responsible for managing diplomatic relations between the EU and the Kingdom of Eswatini. These relations cover political relations, development cooperation, economic and trade relations as well as other areas of mutual interest between the two partners. The central objective of this partnership is to reduce and ultimately eradicate poverty through sustainable development, the progressive integration of Eswatini into the world economy, and the promotion of the rule of law, democracy, and human rights.
About ITC
The International Trade Centre is the joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations. ITC assists small and medium-sized enterprises in developing and transitioning economies to become more competitive in global markets, thereby contributing to sustainable and inclusive economic development within the frameworks of the Aid-for-Trade agenda and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
About the Programme
The ITC-Alliances for Action programme 'Eswatini: Promoting growth through competitive alliances', funded by the EU, supports job creation for small farmers, entrepreneurs, and artisans. Eswatini offers the global market unique organic produce, artisan roasted coffee, handmade cultural creations, and gourmet condiment lines.
ITC works closely with smallholder farmers, agro-processors, and artisans in Eswatini to support them in ways that are sustainable and benefit both people and the planet. In this way, ITC fosters and preserves cultural heritage, and draws on artisan skills and concepts of green growth.
Alliances for Action is an ITC initiative that seeks to transform food systems through producer partnerships that cultivate ethical, climate-smart, sustainable agricultural value chains.
