Empowering makers through extra income generation
We are a small brand showcasing a collection of handmade crafts from small
rural communities bordering Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - home to the
endangered mountain gorillas, in southwest Uganda. We work closely with our
partners to uphold the principles of fair trade, responsible tourism and
sustainable community development.
My partner and I spent two years working for a small but progressive NGO in
Uganda. During our time out there a deep connection with the country, the life
and the people kindled inside us. We worked very closely with the communities
on projects that included sustainable agriculture, responsible tourism and
value-added coffee, as well as the handicrafts. It’s these connections that we
are continuing to develop and promote through opening up opportunities for
our partners to sell their items. Our inspiration definitely comes from the
strength and determination of our partners, in particular the women!
Our collection includes grass woven items by the Ryamigogo Women Weavers, paper bead jewellery and accessories by Polina and friends from Nyabaremura, wood-carved items by Kasule and his apprentices, kitengye (African print fabric) items by Beatrice and banana fibre accessories by Rose. From the paper bead jewellery sets and purses, kitengye handbags and aprons to the banana fibre pouches and clutch purses, the grass bowls and mats, and the gorillas themselves, the items showcase the amazing talent and passion by groups and individuals from rural parts of Uganda.
Handmade and sourced direct from the craft makers ensures that the socio-economic empowerment impact is maximised. Women particularly play very important roles within the family so when you empower them with additional income from the sale of handicrafts you not only support them and their children for medical bills and school fees, but you also give them a foot up financially and socially, benefiting the community as a whole.
We look forward to working with you on a piece of Bwindi for you or the lucky person you want to send a gift to!
Nick
Bwindi Handmade Crafts
