Uganda and Africa’s Artisanal Sector Spotlighted at SOCAP 2024: Unlocking Untapped Global Potential

Africa’s artisanal sector was hailed as a treasure trove of untapped potential during SOCAP 2024, with Uganda emerging as a focal point of the discussion. Represented by Stephen Rwagweri, CEO of African Continental Crafts, the panel highlighted the transformative power of the sector in driving economic inclusion and sustainable development.

Rwagweri, a key voice on the panel, outlined the crucial role African artisans play in preserving cultural heritage while addressing modern challenges. Representing Uganda’s thriving crafts industry and African Continental Crafts’ innovative work, he made a compelling case for greater global recognition and investment in the artisanal economy.

Uganda’s rich tradition of craftsmanship reflects Africa’s broader artisanal potential. From intricate basket weaving to woodcarving, Ugandan artisans create products that are deeply rooted in heritage while catering to global market demands. However, despite its value, the sector often struggles to access global markets due to systemic barriers and inadequate support.

“The artisanal sector represents universal inclusion,” Rwagweri explained. “It connects the marginalized—the landless, refugees, women, and the elderly—to the income economy. With the right support, artisans can reclaim productivity and bring their unique talents to the global stage.”

One example from Uganda illustrates this transformative impact: artisans have used their crafts to provide therapeutic, economic, and social empowerment for vulnerable groups, including people living with HIV. These stories highlight the sector’s adaptability and its potential to drive meaningful change in underserved communities.

African Continental Crafts, under Rwagweri’s leadership, has been at the forefront of promoting the continent’s artisans. The organization’s “Traditional Artisan Inclusion Model” is a groundbreaking framework designed to scale artisanal practices across Africa. By combining capacity building, market access, and digital innovation, the model seeks to empower artisans while preserving their cultural identities.

The organization’s efforts are a blueprint for how Africa’s artisans can thrive on a global scale. African Continental Crafts has helped artisans transition from localized, informal practices to a structured, commercially viable industry with international reach.

Africa’s artisanal sector, estimated to be worth $1 trillion in 2024 with a 20% annual growth rate, remains largely underrepresented in global markets. Yet, it offers a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to mass production, aligning with growing consumer demand for ethical and environmentally conscious products.

SOCAP panelists emphasized that the sector’s potential is being held back by charity-based funding models and tokenistic policies. Instead, they called for sustainable investments—such as social loans and equity funding—that can empower artisans with the tools and resources needed to compete on an international level.

Rwagweri and other panelists called for transnational networks to connect African artisans with international buyers, brands, and investors. Such collaborations would bridge the gap between local craftspeople and global markets, ensuring fair representation and access.

“Africa’s artisanal sector is a sleeping giant,” Rwagweri said. “It’s time to wake it up and let the world see the richness, innovation, and sustainability it brings.”

As SOCAP 2024 concluded, the message was clear: the artisanal sector is not just a cultural asset but a powerful driver of sustainable development and economic inclusion. Organizations like African Continental Crafts are leading the charge, but broader global collaboration and investment are needed to unlock the sector’s full potential.

For more insights and opportunities to collaborate, visit africancontinentalcrafts.com.