In episode 216 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Suwha Hong, CEO of Indego Africa, on empowering female artisans with vocational skills, business acumen, and crucial access to global markets, transforming them into self-sufficient entrepreneurs.

Since its inception in 2007, Indego Africa has been at the forefront of fostering the creation, growth, and sustainability of women-owned businesses across Africa. With a focus on empowering female artisans, Indego Africa equips its partners with vocational skills, business acumen, and crucial access to global markets, transforming them into self-sufficient entrepreneurs.

Indego Africa’s mission revolves around supporting women in their journey to financial independence and entrepreneurship. Currently, the organization partners with over 23 independent, artisan-owned businesses spread across Rwanda, Ghana, and various refugee camps. These partnerships are not just about economic support; they are about creating sustainable businesses that positively impact entire communities.

Education is at the heart of Indego Africa’s mission. Through customized business, leadership, and vocational training programs, artisans gain the knowledge and tools necessary to run and scale their own businesses. These programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each community, ensuring that women can seize long-term economic opportunities. This commitment to education opens doors not only for the women involved but also for their families and the broader community.

One of the key pillars of Indego Africa’s work is providing artisans with access to global markets. By fostering long-term, transparent relationships, the organization ensures that artisans receive fair wages for their work. Using locally sourced, natural materials, these artisans create heirloom-quality products that blend traditional African craftsmanship with modern design. This approach not only preserves cultural heritage but also meets the demands of contemporary consumers.

Indego Africa is deeply committed to sustainability. By sourcing natural fibers and materials from local markets and farms, the organization ensures that its production processes are environmentally responsible. When local sourcing is not possible, materials are sourced consciously, with a priority on pan-African trade, quality, and sustainability. This commitment to local and sustainable practices underscores the durability and environmental responsibility of Indego Africa’s products.

At Indego Africa, craftsmanship is more than a skill; it’s a celebration of heritage. Each product, whether it’s a woven basket or a hand-carved piece of wood, is crafted using time-honored techniques passed down through generations. By collaborating with artisan partners, Indego Africa creates products that not only showcase the artisans’ talent but also bridge the gap between traditional artistry and modern design.

Indego Africa’s approach to partnership is rooted in transparency and fairness. The artisans work with, not for, the organization. Together, they determine fair pricing and ensure that artisans have the resources needed to deliver beautifully crafted products to consumers worldwide. This collaborative approach fosters trust and mutual respect, which are essential for long-term success.

Indego Africa’s impact extends far beyond the individual artisans. The organization’s investment in education and market access has led to significant, measurable results. For instance, 90% of partners report an increase in income since partnering with Indego Africa, while 97% believe the skills they’ve gained will help them earn income in the future. Moreover, there has been a twofold increase in artisans who have started new side businesses outside their cooperative since 2021, demonstrating the far-reaching effects of Indego Africa’s support.

What began as a model to uplift women in post-genocide Rwanda has evolved into a broader mission to empower women, youth, and refugees across Africa. Indego Africa believes in the potential of these individuals to achieve their dreams and become powerful engines of growth for their communities. By providing innovative designs, advanced skills training, and access to global markets, Indego Africa is helping to shape a future where women entrepreneurs can thrive and lead the way in sustainable development.

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