Seoul: African businesswomen from Turkana County, Kenya, are finding promising opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, thanks to a recent trip to South Korea. Sarah Sikatenda, a former journalist from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is now at the helm of the Kalobeyei Women Handicraft Cooperative. This organization, which boasts over 300 members from various African nations, produces beaded jewelry, woven baskets, and upcycled textile products.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Sikatenda, along with three other African businesswomen, traveled to South Korea with the support of the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). This initiative, known as the "Thrive" project, aims to empower women-led businesses in marginalized regions by connecting them with potential buyers in South Korea.

Sikatenda found the Korean market's attention to detail and preference for ethical brands particularly impressive. She noted that South Koreans' pursuit of perfection in their products inspired her to focus on these aspects within her cooperative. Joyce Asinyon Logiron, another delegate, leads the Ekoriakaa Ushanga Group, which supports people with disabilities. Logiron was inspired by her experience in South Korea to incorporate buyer-focused designs and finishing touches in her products.

Benta Ekiru Eremon, who leads the Ng'ide Etidong Group, emphasized the importance of interacting with the global market. She expressed hope for further developing the handicraft industry in Kenya by addressing the lack of automation and processing technologies. Josephine Lobur Alongita, leader of the Blue Container Women Group, highlighted the significance of customizing products for different markets, learning that smaller items like beaded key rings could appeal to Korean consumers.

Although no immediate agreements were reached during their trip, the businesswomen built valuable networks with potential buyers. Sikatenda dreams of seeing Kenyan refugee-made products sold in South Korea under a unified Turkana brand. She emphasized the need for further training, including digital marketing, to help artisans reach broader markets and improve their livelihoods.