The Community Skills Development Foundation (COSDEF) Oyetu Project Manager has warned that a lack of funding is preventing talented artisans from turning their skills into sustainable businesses.

COSDEF, through its Oyetu Project, hosted the 2026 Annual Craft Innovation Competition in Swakopmund.

Now in its third year, the event brought together artisans from across Namibia to showcase products, inspired by the country's cultural heritage, while promoting entrepreneurship and job creation.

Project manager Samuel Shayanena said the participants include women whose craftsmanship sustains households, as well as indigenous communities whose traditional knowledge represents an untapped economic treasure.

"The demand for the Oyetu project continues to grow every year, but the resources available to reach every community remain limited. At present, much of this important work depends on international development support. I believe the time has come for Namibia to invest more boldly in its own creative people and marketable initiatives, such as the Oyetu project."

He called on the government, regional and local authorities, the private sector, and financial institutions to help create local funding that would enable the Oyetu Project to reach every community in need.

Swakopmund mayor Suamma Kautondokwa commended the COSDEF Oyetu Project for taking skills development to communities that are often left behind in Namibia, while beneficiaries highlighted the programme's impact.

"COSDEF is equipping young people and artisans with the practical tools they need to become economically active and self-reliant. Instead of waiting for employment opportunities, the artisans are being empowered to become job creators, business owners, and contributors to Namibia's growing creative economy."

One of the finalists in the Oyetu Annual Craft Innovation Competition, Fransine Beukes, shared that "Our traditions, our heritage, and our identities are not things of the past. They are opportunities for the future. We have discovered how to transform our cultural knowledge into products that can compete in today's marketplace while preserving what makes Namibia special."

The COSDEF Oyetu Project received 21 applications, but only 10 finalists were selected to participate in the Craft Innovation Competition.