An original product

Shi has set for herself another important goal: to introduce and sell African specialty products via Bobuafrica. “Whenever I show my friends typical African objects like Maasai necklaces, they ask me what are the meaning behind these objects. It gave me the idea that transcultural trade might be a good way to promote African culture among Chinese consumers,” she explained. Today, Bobuafrica users can buy African products as varied as the famous South African rooibos, Kenyan soapstone sculptures, Maasai bracelets, Rwandan handicraft necklaces and so on.

“By practicing a kind of fair trade, I also wish to contribute to the development of African crafts and create jobs,” she said. Amongst the sales partners of Bobuafrica are many organizations whose mission is to take advantage of traditional practices to help local women improve their financial independence. Basecamp Maasai Brand (BMB) is one of them. Jemimah Sairowua, BMB Project Manager, values her partnership with Bobuafrica, saying: “Bobuafrica helps our Maasai women sell their creations, thus earning them an income which the ladies use to buy food, clothing and build modern housing. I am very grateful to them for having established such a commercial and cultural platform.”

As for the future, Shi hopes to take root on African soil, like the baobabs that overcome drought and solitude, to finally realize her African dream. Comments to lixiaoyu@chinafrica.cn