The Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, said access to funding and exposure to international markets are some of the key aspects that will help the Kalahari Wild Silk Project prosper.

Ashipala-Musavyi made this remark during her visit to the project at Leonardville in the Omaheke Region. 

Ashipala-Musavyi emphasised that with support from all stakeholders, the 20-woman-led Kalahari Wild Silk project has the potential to grow.

She said that the project is very unique, and it will also place the region and country on the international map; hence, the group should maximise production.

Women collect wild silk cocoons, process them into silk yarn, and create various products, such as scarves, curtains, and decorative pillows.

"Access to funds is crucial, and the quality of the products is superb when I examine them. We can utilise our diplomatic missions and other channels to guarantee the display of these products at the various trade fairs we participate in. The VP just came back recently from the Intra-African Trade Fair. I believe the region is making significant progress; all they require is guidance for the market, and we are committed to ensuring their fair share of market access. I'm really impressed by what these women are doing."

The minister implored the group to create enough products for export. 

The spokesperson of the project, Petra Witbooi, said that despite challenges, the project has improved their living standard.

Witbooi, however, said modern technology would be of tremendous help to speed up production and attract young people in the area to join the manufacturing process.