Hamsatu Aliyu Afegbua, is forging a path to community security through her innovative initiative, focused on empowering local artisans in Northern Nigeria, her passion aims to harness the traditional craft of raffia weaving as a means to enhance human security within communities. By promoting the work of local raffia weavers on the international stage through digital marketing and ecommerce platforms, Afegbua not only creates economic opportunities but also strengthens the social fabric of these communities. Her commitment to reinvesting profits back into the local economy ensures sustainable growth and prosperity for artisans and residents alike.
In a bid to uplift local communities and foster empowerment among women, Hamsatu Aliyu Afegbua, the founder of Yasmin Limited formerly known as Yasmin crafts, has been making significant strides. Her recent appearance as a guest on Public Intel Security Africa, aired on Nigeria Police Radio 99.1FM Abuja, sheds light on her multifaceted approach to community development.
Speaking during the insightful conversation with Dakore Ekpendu, host and founder Public Intel Security Africa, Afegbua shared her deep-rooted passion for making raffias, a craft she developed during her formative years. Drawing from her personal experiences and expertise, she revealed her dedication to connecting local raffia makers with international markets, creating pathways for their craftsmanship to reach a global audience.
Afegbua, a distinguished graduate of Architecture from Ahmadu Bello University Kaduna Nigeria, offered a glimpse into her remarkable journey from her early years in the North to her passion for empowering local artisans. Her commitment to bridging the gap between local artisans and international markets not only highlights her entrepreneurial spirit but also underscores her dedication to uplifting communities and preserving cultural heritage by facilitating the sale of raffia products on the global stage through social and digital media marketing.
She further discussed her focus on teaching community women the art of crafting raffia products of various kinds. Through her passion, individuals are equipped with valuable skills that not only preserve traditional craftsmanship but also provide them with avenues for sustainable income generation.
The renowned architect during the live show detailed her support for women beyond skills development by leveraging digital platforms to sell the handmade raffia items online and also facilitating access to larger markets, ensuring the efforts of local artisans translate into tangible economic opportunities globally.
Through innovative digital marketing strategies and ecommerce platforms, Afegbua is revolutionizing the way raffia products are showcased and sold globally. She actively purchases their raffia products, enhancing them with creative accessories, and strategically markets them to discerning buyers worldwide. Central to Afegbua’s approach is her commitment to direct engagement with local weavers remitting percentage profits sales back to local weavers. Through this innovative business model, Afegbua ensures that the unique talents and traditions of Northern Nigerian artisans are celebrated and preserved on a global scale.
The renowned entrepreneur and the pioneer President Flourish Africa Alumnae Association FAA, Afegbua continues to pave the way for women’s economic empowerment by offering unparalleled support and guidance in crafting grant proposals tailored to the unique needs of each business endeavor.
Dakore made a heartfelt appeal to Afegbua during the live show, emphasizing the importance of assisting female callers seeking aid from Flourish Africa. Recognizing the significance of this initiative, Afegbua a seasoned mentor pledged to lend her expertise to three fortunate female callers, expressed her commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs, guiding them through the grant application process with proofreading, and fine-tuning their proposals for impeccable presentation for the next Flourish Africa grant submission. With a steadfast commitment to nurturing and amplifying women’s endeavors, Afegbua is leveraging her expertise and experience to enable aspiring female entrepreneurs to navigate the intricacies of grant applications with confidence and precision.
Dakore’s holistic approach of empowerment through her radio program for local communities serves as beacon of hope for grassroots empowerment for human security
