Plastic bags are a significant source of harm to several communities in Africa. This includes harm to wildlife and livestock. The bags block storm drains and sewage systems, leading to flooding and increased spread of diseases. For example, the water trapped in the bags bread mosquitoes, which raise the risk of malaria transmission.
Azasou's "Weave Earth" project works in partnership with some communities to play a role in caring for the environment. It is also aimed at sharing with the Western communities the traditional & organic resources that for generations have been used as alternatives to plastic bags by African communities. Through this sharing and exposure, our vision is that developed countries will eventually stop the production of plastic bags and their exportation into developing countries.
By trading fairly as part the Weave Earth project, we also acknowledge that when change is instigated by communities and owned by them, they successfully thrive, rather than being dependent on charity as a way forward - a process which continues to highlight disparities of power.
We currently trade Bolga Baskets, which are hand woven out of 100% organic Elephant grass by the people of Bolgatanga - Northern Ghana & also Navrongo Tote side bags in Australia as part of the project.
We usually sell at the Midland Markets (The Crescent, Midland) on Sundays.