A Bulawayo-based entrepreneur is contributing to environmental protection by recycling empty alcohol bottles and transforming them into decorative centrepieces for homes and commercial spaces.
Sukoluhle Ncube, founder and director of African Recycling Queens, told CITE at the Imiklomelo ka Dakamela 2026 Cultural Festival that her journey began several years ago with ostrich egg art before she transitioned to bottle design during the Covid-19 lockdown.
Ncube said she first drew inspiration from traders at City Hall in Bulawayo’s central business district, who decorated and sold ostrich eggs.
“I started this business years ago. Initially, I was doing art on ostrich eggs. I got the inspiration from the people who sell their wares at City Hall in the Bulawayo CBD,” she said.
She explained that she previously worked for a woman who kept ostrich eggs at her home and would allow her to use them for her craft, providing her with a source of additional income.
“Some years later, when Covid-19 hit and people were on lockdown, I could no longer access ostrich eggs. Out of boredom and necessity, I turned to bottles. We had plenty of empty bottles in our yard, and I started decorating them using beadwork and traditional materials,” she said.
Ncube said she has since refined her skills and continues to collect bottles even after the lockdown period.
“I have improved my craft over time and now actively collect bottles. I use ordinary bottles, but for more premium designs I source specific types, sometimes at a cost,” she said.
Her clients include individuals seeking rustic décor for their homes and offices, as well as businesses such as hotels and lodges.
Beyond commercial interests, Ncube said she is committed to empowering young people by equipping them with practical skills.
“As a way of promoting environmental protection and hygiene, I have been working with youths, teaching them beadwork and how to decorate these bottles,” she said.
However, she noted that limited resources have made it necessary to charge a small fee for the lessons, which covers practical training and a starter pack of beads and materials required to begin decorating the bottles.
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