MARONDERA-BASED Joseph Chifamba has remained resolute in the biting industry of art and crafts where some have fallen by the wayside.
Wadzanai Madhibha Own Correspondent
While his peers grumble about the difficult economy, the 34-year-old has fought back using one of the most unlikely means.
Chifamba makes ornaments such as bangles, earrings, bracelets and key holders, among others, using cow horns.
NewsDay caught up with him at his Land Park workshop where he said although the business gives him relief, it has not been easy.
“I have been making ornaments using cow horns since 2010 and being from Marondera, it has been very difficult to get a market in Zimbabwe,” Chifamba said.
“It is only last year that I started selling some of my ornaments in Victoria Falls and some people from as far as South Africa are now calling me for orders.”
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He says what gives him solace is the fact that cow horns are not too difficult to source as they are waste material.
His story is similar to that of some artistes that have been recycling various waste materials for art.
“I have a degree in Media Studies, but it has been very difficult for me to find a job. Since I have always had a passion for crafting, I decided to venture into the business,” he said.
Even though it is difficult to get a market for the ornaments in the country, a few that appreaite and buy them have remained steadfast.
Linah Ngorima, a regular customer, said she just fell in love with Chifamba’s art when she saw one of her friends wearing his bangles. “I immediately admired his ornaments when I saw one of my friends wearing the bangles at a party and I loved them.
My friend then introduced me to Chifamba,” Ngorima said.
On top of the creativity in the products, the prices are affordable and average $4.
