Ballout locks into jewellery niche

For most women, jewellery is just a fashion accessory but for a local businesswoman, Mathe Ballout, it means more than that.

Ballout has struck a niche market in the jewellery manufacturing industry which is still a new field in the country. She said the jewellery manufacturing business she has been running for eight years is striving.  Unlike most Batswana who like whining, Ballout is not complaining about business.  Ballout, who has been operating at African Mall in Gaborone, is even thinking about expanding her business. She revealed that they are intending to open another workshop at a new shopping complex near the Gaborone bus rank. She also intends to open branches in places like Palapye and Maun.  Ballout said her customers are from all over the country. 

She has since realised that Batswana are also into 'bling', especially necklaces. However, she noticed that the local people cannot differentiate between real gold and a gold plated jewellery piece. As a result, traders take customers for a ride.  Ballout's business entails manufacturing rings of nine and 18 gold carats. They also repair watches as well as renewing rings and other jewellery.  In addition, they fix frames for spectacles. Another service includes the setting of cubics and diamonds on rings.  Most of their customers are bridal couples.

Editor's Comment
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The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...

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