Debswana, De Beers create growth strategy for Oodi Weavers

 

Debswana Diamond Company and De Beers Group have joined efforts to co-create a future growth strategy for Oodi Weavers, as well as implement skills transfer and upskilling initiatives.

Despite nearly five decades of remarkable success, Oodi Weavers have been facing significant challenges, including an aging population of weavers, limited entrepreneurial skills, constrained product development, and cashflow difficulties. Debswana and the De Beers group recently supported the group to participate in an exhibition show organised by Thapong Visual Arts. The showcase, a member’s exhibition, opened in April and attracted 38 exhibitors from across the country.

It provides a great opportunity for different artists to exchange ideas, explore new markets, and showcase different products to both national and international customers.

Oodi Weavers, a female-based small business textile weaving cooperative, specialises in traditional fabric weaving, a unique skill from time immemorial. Oodi Weavers plays a vital role in preserving Botswana's weaving traditions and providing a platform for women to showcase their artistic skills, contributing to community economic development.

Recognised locally and internationally for their craftsmanship and unique designs, the cooperative also emphasises skills development, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.

The products they produce such as cushion covers, floor mats, and bedspreads, go beyond just eye catching, but narrate a beautiful story of life experiences and cultural traditions.

Debswana Executive Head of Corporate Affairs, Rachel Mothibatsela, noted that this co-development initiative reflects the two mining companies’ commitment to citizen economic empowerment, community development and empowering women and other disadvantaged populations such as youth and women.

The initiative also advances cultural heritage preservation, fosters economic diversification, and commercialisation of the arts sector. As part of its Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy known as Building Forever, Debswana aims to make an impact in a much deeper and more meaningful way, helping to make life brilliant for people, communities, and customers.

“Our unwavering commitment to community development in Botswana is evident. We firmly believe that Oodi Weavers and the broader creative industry have the potential to pioneer an export-driven economy.

Through our Building Forever initiative, we are confident that these efforts will lead to sustainable growth and long-term positive impact. By investing in skills development, fostering innovation, and expanding market opportunities, we aim to empower local artisans and entrepreneurs.

This not only preserves Botswana's rich cultural heritage but also drives economic diversification and resilience. Our collaboration with Oodi Weavers exemplifies our dedication to creating a brighter, more prosperous future for all,” Otsile Mabeo, Vice President Corporate Affairs, De Beers Global Sight Holder Sales, said.

Thapong Visual Arts Centre Coordinator, Reginald Bakwena, was impressed by the level of competitiveness, innovation, and creativity of Oodi Weavers. He remarked that the public has been supportive by purchasing some of the artefacts on display since the exhibition started.

Among areas for improvement, Bakwena cited the need for more training to align with the new market demands, exposure to other arts centres to build new skills, and curation of authentic and natural

designs that appeal to younger customers.

Oodi weavers, was founded in 1972 by Swedes, Ulla and Peder Gowenius. Gowenius wanted to establish a place where he could instil confidence in the members of the cooperative, and give them something by which to eke a living.

The initial group that formed part of the Oodi Weavers comprised mostly of women from Oodi, Matebele and Modipane.