Zambian bag maker empowers youth through manufacturing

In Lusaka, Zambia, Brian Hamubotu launched Hillight Manufacturers Limited after facing personal hardship and previous business failures. He now employs and trains 14 young Zambians to produce customized bags.

Hamubotu began his venture by selling bracelets to fund the purchase of a heat press, gradually expanding to a workshop at Lusaka City Market. His company currently manufactures up to 600 bags daily for businesses, schools, and individuals across Zambia.

Hamubotu’s journey included a period of crisis when his mother’s house burned down, but counseling and the initial success of bracelet sales helped him rebuild his life. He prioritizes creating opportunities for young people, seeing his workshop as a place for skills development, unity, and support, a “father figure” role for those lacking opportunities. Several employees, like Esther and John Banda, have gained valuable skills and employment through the company despite limited formal education.

Currently, expansion is limited by the small size of the workshop, the cost of larger facilities, and outdated equipment. Hamubotu is seeking support from the government or donors to secure better machinery and a larger space. This would allow him to increase production, accept larger orders, and train a significantly larger workforce, with a goal of reaching 5,000 young Zambians.

This ambition aligns with Zambia’s national development plan to increase domestic manufacturing and value addition, a sector which attracted US$7.33 billion in investment and created 46,759 jobs between 2021 and June 2026.