The Umutako Iwacu co-op is born in 2006 from the partnership of five dedicated craftspeople using various traditional techniques such as basket weaving, sewing, pottery and wood work. Together they create a collection of original products combining their skills and local materials (clay, papyrus, banana leaves, impunzu, loin cloth). They produce non-edited designs of furniture and ornamental accessories. Their creations are inspired by African art with a blend of modern design. |
From the beginning of its actions, the principles of the fair trade is in practice. Each artisan sets the price of his/her work. Umutako add 30% to this price in order to cover the running cost (the designer, marketing, administrative costs and replacement or buying of materials and tools (investment)). The artisan receives the income generated by the sales.
In 2010, the co-op started making profits. It allow for the rent of a house downtown Kigali. Part of the house is used as working studio’s for the carpenters, the blacksmith, the weavers and the sewing ladies. The other serves as showrooms. At this stage, the potters are still working from their rented houses in Kigali. |