Since 2010, we have been producing an accessories line in Kenya thanks to a collaboration with the Ethical Fashion Initiative (EFI) of the International Trade Centre – a joint body of the United Nations and the World Trade Organisation – which currently supports the work of thousands of artisan micro-producers from marginalised African communities.
OUR WORK WITH ARTISAN FASHION
Since 2015, our products have been manufactured through a local social enterprise, Artisan Fashion, which specialises in the production of high-end accessories with community groups of artisans. Originally set up by EFI, Artisan Fashion is now a completely independent and successful business due in part to the continued workflow from Vivienne Westwood, which supports 2,600 artisans. This season, 54% of all the artisans employed by Artisan Fashion are women and 55% of artisans were able to put savings toward school fees, while 100% improved their skills through on the job training.
The current collection consists of 30% repurposed materials, such as deadstock found on local Mitumba markets, and was produced with 92% renewable energy, consisting of a mix of wind, geothermal, solar and hydro power.
