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Tanzania, similar to other countries in Africa, has a rich history of designing and creating decorative items through fabric dyeing, carving, weaving, beading, and other techniques. Many artisans are women with incredible skills but limited financial resources or market access. To address these barriers, The Olive Branch for Children (TOBFC) began our Kubuni Artisans program, using two business models to support women artisans.

 

TWO MODELS TO SUPPORT WOMEN ARTISANS

Under the first model, TOBFC directly employs eight full-time artisans trained in beading and bamboo. Our staffperson Ikupa manages this program, ensuring the women have all the inputs and tools they need and are fully supported to produce their crafts. They are salaried workers that receive medical benefits and a pension as part of their compensation. They are also eligible for a TOBFC employee grant for one child per family to attend the Olive Branch Montessori Academy to get the best educational start for their child’s future.

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The second model supports Maasai traditional beaders. TOBFC partners with 20 women from the Maasai community who work part-time. TOBFC commissions work, provides many of the beading inputs, and pays the women for each completed piece. TOBFC keychains and wall hangings are created by this group of women artisans. We also provide educational scholarships for their children to support their future financial autonomy. One of these children is now a trained plumber.​​​​