Who am I?
Hello. My name is Martha, but everyone here in the village just calls me Mama so you can too. That's me on the top of the page. I still have a hard time believing that is my face there on the Internet, but life is full of surprises. I thought I'd gather up all the wonderful artists and artisans that I've met in my travels and give you the chance to meet them. I'm sure you will love them as much as I do. And as I get to meet more men and women across the continent, I'll have them drop in to say hello.
I really hope you enjoy your stay. You feel free to call on Mama if there is anything you need to know. Its always a pleasure to help out a new friend.
What do I do?
Mama Afrika is dedicated to providing you with three things: quality products, information about a number of ethnic groups and cultures found throughout the African continent, and a chance to help African men, women and children. You have surely noticed by now that Mama tries to tell you about the countries and cultures that use these products. After all, long before Mama met the men and women at the various cooperatives, they were making beautiful but practical art. Masks, for example have been used in rituals and rites almost everywhere in Africa way before we used them for decoration. The product descriptions are intended not only to give you practical information; but a few interesting facts as well. This lets you to make a more informed choice. At the same time, it assures the artisans that you understand their artwork, which means a lot to them. After all, many hours are spent creating these lovely objects.Additionally, Mama believes in fair trade. That means giving artisans and cooperative members a fair price for their works. It also means that Mama insists on giving artists enough time to fill any order placed; thus avoiding making the artists feel like factory workers. Each cooperative tells her what delivery delay they need in order to produce excellent hand-crafted artworks, and Mama allows them that time. So please understand if you place a special order that each item is an individual work worth waiting for. Mama also values each person who places an order and knows that time is often of the essence. Therefore, express shipping is always available. (Please see shipping options in the FAQ).Finally, you are giving to Africa twice with each order placed. Initially, orders placed allow artists who produce the works to feed their families, buy medicines, schoolbooks, and other necessities. Many artisans live solely from the income they earn selling their wares. You can learn more about individual artists in the "Artisan of the month" section. Secondly, Mama donates a portion of the proceeds from each order placed to one of the featured local NGOs. You can find out more about these NGOs and the great work they do by clicking on the links next to the map of Africa at the bottom of each page on the site.
Thanks for coming by! Please be sure to check back regularly as Mama is making new friends daily and looks forward to sharing their wares and a bit of their lives with you. I hope to see you again soon... |
