The Border-Kei Chamber of Business is assisting local women-owned businesses to export their products to international markets.

The Women in Trade Export Readiness Programme, launched on September 2, will run for eight weeks, and is fully funded by the UK government and UK School of Export.

BKCOB  is one of only three organisations on the African continent selected to administer this programme.

The participants were selected from identified sub- sectors of industry that have potential for export.

The categories include beauty and cosmetology, agriculture, wool, natural ingredients, speciality products, and health-related products.

Chairperson of the BKCOB women’s forum, Bonnie Currin, said it was impressive that strong candidates in the Border region could be immediately identified, with their products well beyond export standard.

Participants selected had to demonstrate a strong hold on the local market, with their products already established for two years or more.

Currin said given the success the participants have had in the local market, export opportunities would definitely yield results. Despite local economic challenges, their success was a testament to their resilience and business acumen.

“A lot of these businesses  started as side hustles and over time have grown into local established brands,” she said.

“The maturity of their products shows they have what it takes. They understand success will come but it will take sacrifice now, especially because none of the businesses have experience in exporting.” Currin said the programme would have ripple effects through creating jobs and contributing to the economy.

Participant and co-owner of Ginger Love, Simone Klaasen, said: “I absolutely love the sessions, it’s been so exciting to meet different women from different fields and to be able to network. Lizelle Maurice is so knowledgeable and very helpful with all sessions.”