IMPACT THROUGH CRAFT
Aketekete works to connect our local artisans with customers. We believe in the collaborative creation of modern objects using old craft techniques while maintaining the most sustainable, responsible, and ethical production process possible.
The design process begins in the communities of our artisans. They share techniques, ideas, and inspiration and explore the process of creation as a team together with the designers. Our artisans are exceptionally talented and committed members of the team. Often we see our products pass through the hands of multiple artisans working in collaboration to deliver the finest final product.
We have decided to produce small batches of products and limited one of a kind pieces to ensure a responsible work culture for our artisans and to protect their craft. Some of our pieces may be imagined, designed, and crafted entirely by the artisan.
Some of our ‘pre-order’ products are specially made for you, with love and patience. If this is the case, it may be that we need a little more time for producing and delivering. It might take one to two months but this is the beauty of the process, knowing that an artisan is working to create something specifically for you.
OUR TEAM
Our team supports the artisan’s community growth and development by working closely with the artisans, focusing on designing quality and unique pieces that are created responsibly. Modern raw objects have their final assembling of pieces and quality control at our small office in Accra.
Our team is excited to co-create and design projects that reflect our aims and goals. Our pieces pass through different hands before their final stage. And this is the impact we want to create. Sharing, caring, and loving together our pieces.
By enabling a space to truly listen and share our stories and the stories of weavers, bead makers, farmers, dyers, and creatives, we as a community can truly celebrate and honor each other as individuals but also as a team and begin to understand what is needed to be truly sustainable.
OUR MATERIALS
Our goal is to live in harmony with nature by being responsible and thoughtful with the materials we use. We focus on using natural, locally sourced materials whenever possible and using handmade processes to avoid producing waste. We work to innovate and improve our own practices and equip our team to do the same, minimizing our environmental impact.
WAGES AND PRODUCT PRODUCTION PRICE
During the first round of sample production, the Aketekete Team works together with the artisans to analyze the process. We maintain an open-door policy and encourage the makers to examine and ask questions about financial data. All payment rates are set through an open dialogue ensuring fair prices and a positive environment. Our Aketekete artisans earn between 2-3 times more than if they sold on local markets or worked for other companies.
*All of our prices have been compared to online market analysis and also local market analysis to ensure our liability and fair payment.
PRODUCT PRICES
Payment levels vary based on the time required and difficulty in making the product as well as the level of quality achiever. Steady and continuous orders ensure that Aketekete is a sustainable source of income and there’s no need to work for other companies or local markets. However, we encourage our artisans to manage their business as they see fit and to seek clients outside of Aketekete if the job shares our principles.
All of our profits are reinvested back into the company ensuring conscious business development and helping us further grow as a team. This will provide more opportunities for other artisans.
Learn more about Transparency and Traceability.
