07/10/2026
VIC FALLS CRAFT COOPERATIVES UNITE TO TARGET GLOBAL MARKETS
Thirteen arts and crafts cooperatives in Victoria Falls have joined forces to establish the Victoria Falls Arts and Crafts Cooperative Union, in a move aimed at taking locally produced crafts beyond the tourist market and into international markets.
The union was formally launched on 18 September, following a capacity-building programme supported by ZimTrade, which equipped local producers with skills in cooperative management, regulatory compliance, product development and accessing export markets.
For years, Victoria Falls artisans have largely depended on tourists visiting the destination to purchase their products. The new union seeks to change that by creating a stronger collective platform through which locally made crafts can reach regional and international buyers.
According to ZimTrade, global demand presents significant opportunities, with imports within the broader arts and crafts product category increasing from US$276.3 billion in 2021 to US$319.4 billion in 2025.
The initiative could open new opportunities for local artisans while strengthening Victoria Falls' creative economy and promoting Zimbabwean-made products on the global market.
From the streets and craft markets of Victoria Falls to the world, local artisans are setting their sights beyond the tourist market.
Cred: Kudakwashe Tirivavi