“TO GO BACK TO TRADITION IS THE FIRST STEP FORWARD”
Be uniquely fashionable for social change.
At Urembo, our purpose is to create innovative and unique products in fashion, jewelry, interior design, and arts with African flavor at its core.
Through this, we want to impact society. The minds and hands behind all the products are chosen intentionally among those Tanzanians from less affluent areas and backgrounds. Challenges create inspiration, and that is where we believe some of the ideas were formed and born.
Rooted in this philosophy, Urembo seeks to make a positive change and a lasting impact in today's world.
We are global citizens with the opportunity to choose almost anything we can afford. Our choices, big or small, affect others. When we select pure and beautiful things in both quality and at heart, we insert dignity along the supply chain. Making sure no one is left behind in the journey of the beautiful things we choose.
Our main focus is on handmade products. For example, earrings are made by using traditional maasai beadwork techniques with a modern touch. Our artisan use high quality glass beads and all the hooks are Sterling 925 silver. There are seven main colours used in Maasai beadwork and all of them has a specific meaning behind. For example yellow symbolizes hospitality, White - represents peace, purity, and health. In our collection you will find also some other beautiful colours that we have been play with to make the most unique earrings for you. When purchasing our products, you are not only getting something for yourself, but you will also be a part of creating work opportunities for artisans in Tanzania.
Social Enterprises
Tatu Rafiki
In Moshi, the gateway town to Mount Kilimanjaro, resides Tatu Rafiki ( translates) to “ Three Friends” a shop composed of three deaf tailors incorporating up cycling as part of their sustainable business model. Their products serve as art pieces, cultural commentary, and a sense of connection.
Tatu Rafiki repurposes bags and sneakers with bright and colorful Kitenge (African wax print fabric) and stitches apparel through various fabrics available in the local markets.
#Upcycling involves creatively reusing old materials while maintaining some of their original characteristics, bringing back a specialness to products that have been lost among fast fashion and mass-market brands.
Tatu Rafiki gives products a new life and reduces harmful environmental impact. Through the purchase of their products, the tailors encourage customers to critically think about the make and consumption of fashion and reconsider both its processes and outcomes.
Schwari
Schwari is the Swahili word for “calm”. The line was funded by my friend designer, Beate Allard, who operates a workshop in Arusha, Tanzania where her imagination and creativity are transformed into what can simply be described as “ iving art”.
Since 2008, Schwari has been a popular source of unique clothing, accessories and home goods for residents and visitors of Tanzania - but is now becoming a fast- growing brand and has taken the international stage.
The Schwari signature consists of intimate traditional Maasai beading, along with hand-died textiles, leather, and vibrant African fabrics. From couture clothing for women, men, children and babies, to cushions, wall hanging, purses and shoes, you can enjoy Schwari from head to toe, and ceiling to floor.
The Schwari Workshop is located in Arusha, Tanzania and employees over 39 artisans who are trained in the high-standard tailoring, intricate beading, and specialized leather work that goes into each Schwari piece. None of our pieces are mass produced and each is unique based upon the colors and fabric prints available, and of course, the artistic inspiration of the designer and artisans. You can rest assured that any piece of Schwari you add to your collection is made under fair employment and safe working conditions, and often supports women working from their own homes due to disability or family needs.
Shirikisha
SHIRIKISHA is a local social enterprise that works with the deaf people and other individuals who want to make a change in their lives and the lives of others. The deaf and hard of hearing women together with other disadvantaged individuals, learn the art of design and production of smart items. They make items such as wallets, bags, cases, dresses, table mats and table runners, aprons and many others from local fabrics and recycled materials.
By purchasing these products you will be directly supporting disenfranchised people in the community.
Aid Tanzania
Aid Tanzania, a US charitable organization, funds the work of Kiretono Resource Organization, a Tanzanian NGO. Our mission is to help pastoralists live a more secure and stable life through holistic programs that improve financial standing, educational levels, and the health and well-being of pastoralist families living in and around Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
All items are hand-made by participants in our Women's Enterprise Program in Tanzania.
URU
Uru designs “reflects the true essence and spirit of Africa and has been created using the finest rough diamonds, rubies, tsavorites, tanzanites and emeralds cast in gold and silver.”
The word “Uru” refers to an ancient Swahili term describing “a powerful essence, that comes from a diamond worn and cherished by African kings and queens.” The first bracelet made in 2009, was created using locally sourced rough tanzanites, gold and fishing line. Now, Uru Designs has expanded to create a wide range of bracelets. The bracelet straps are made form hand knotted threads or natural leathers in a wide array of colors carefully selected to math with the precious gem attached to it.
Any interest, message me at urthurembo@gmail.com
Masaai Market
The Masai Market gives you the opportunity to buy authentic African art, hand- crafted beaded jewelry and clothing, and even decorating material you could use for your home.
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We are deeply committed to preserving and supporting textile traditions across the African continent and around the world, and are proud to be able to work with talented artisans creating beautiful, sustainable pieces by hand.”
Moshi Mamas
Moshi Mamas is a craft cooperative that was developed by graduates of the non-profit, Give a Heart to Africa. GHTA is an organization that provides free education to women around Moshi in English, Business and Vocations. The women run the business with the support of Planeterra and G Adventures. All of their products are handmade in Moshi
Sasik
When entering the shop of Sasik, you will be immediately enchanted by the colorful, mystic, Arabic designs of their famous pillowcases. The technique is referred to as appliqué, which the mother and sister of the current owner and manager Aida have taught themselves how to transfer it to bigger pieces.
Today Aida takes the designs one step further and keeps creating new ones inspired by Arabic, Swahili and Bedouin patterns as well as ancient Arabic ornaments on architectural pieces throughout Stone Town.
Sasik is run as a women cooperative which especially gives women from rural areas of the island a possibility to improve their standard of living. The cotton is sourced from Tanzania mainland, since Zanzibar does not have its own cotton industry. The cut-offs of fabric factories are reused for their patterns. There are over 40 Zanzibari women contributing to the success of Sasik. Everything is directly sewed by hand in their shop in Stone Town.
Aida is also involved in the community through teaching yoga for free during outreach classes and creating educational material for better waste management awareness and recycling.
We are deeply committed to preserving and supporting textile traditions across the African continent and around the world, and are proud to be able to work with talented artisans creating beautiful, sustainable pieces by hand.