Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya was the birthplace of the Ethical Fashion Initiative in 2009.
The project quickly expanded and is now Artisan Fashion, an independent social enterprise that employs over one thousand people, most of which are women.
This Kenyan hub brings together a range of artisan skills, from traditional Maasai beading to horn and bone carving, employing community groups and women’s cooperatives throughout the country.
EFI’s array of opportunities for creatives in Kenya has diversified to include development of creative talent through the Kenya Designer Accelerator, supported by ACP, as well as Opportunities Are Here, an innovative virtual TV/radio show.
EFI’s projects in Kenya are proudly supported by the European Union’s Identity Building and Business Sharing Initiative.
1 social enterprise partner
Artisan Fashion coordinates all production in Africa for EFI
15 community groups
Sanata Women’s Group, Bega Kwa Bega Beading Group, Hadithi Basket Weavers, Olonana and Olyandati Beading groups, and more
10 years
Providing decent work to beneficiaries
Supported by the European Union
Identity Building and Business Sharing Initiative
“Being a Maasai young man, I am expected to have a family by now. But I chose a different path. I joined college but I have to pay my school fees because my parents do not believe in higher formal education. That is why I work part-time with Olonana women's group. By working with them, I am able to pay for my school fees as well as cater for my other needs. I am grateful to Artisan Fashion for empowering the women and youth of my community.”
Samuel Saruni, 23 years old
Meet the Makers: turning boat sails into luxury handbags
Follow Wanyama as he sources unused dhow sail from the coast near Mombasa to be upcycled to bags for Vivienne Westwood at the Artisan Fashion Hub.
Our social enterprise partner Artisan Fashion coordinates the work of artisan community groups throughout Kenya, from Maasai beading groups in the Ngong Hills to brass casters working with upcycled materials in Nairobi.
Bag Making
Basket Weaving
Jewellery Making
Beading
Made in Kenya
Stories From Kenya
