BOLGA WOVEN BASKETS
Aketekete is a new emerging brand that designs and creates sustainable high-quality Woven Bolga Baskets & hand crafted Ghana Glass Recycled Jewelry in Ghana by collaborating with local artisans. We value connecting with creatives to produce modern pieces using old traditional techniques while maintaining ethical and fair processes. We promote a transparent process where the artisan is always the main focus of our work.
Our Bolga Baskets are created in the North of Ghana where traditional weaving skills have been passed down to subsequent generations over centuries. These Bolga Baskets were originally used as food storage and for funeral rites. Production of these Bolga Baskets allows access to a fair wage for our workers.
We base our Bolga Baskets production in different communities in Sumbrungu, Yikene, Zaare and Gambibiguo where we mostly collaborate with women weavers. Our artisans are given the opportunity to show and sell their creations but also to design the style and shape of the Bolga Baskets they feel more comfortable with to improve their skills. Baskets shapes and colors are unlimited; from storage & laundry baskets, to market baskets or tiny shoulder bags.
We create each Bolga Basket piece with respect for the materials and for the hands that make it. We source sustainable natural fibers called ‘straw’ or elephant grass farmed in Ghana. We also use and recycle materials to ensure minimal waste. We innovate and improve our ethical practices and equip our team to do the same.
Each Bolga Basket can take between 5 and 15 days to be completed. Multiple processes are necessary where the straw is twisted, dyed, and woven. For this reason, each Bolga Basket will be unique, displaying the fingerprint of our artisan.
