About us
Following her move to Kenya in 2005 ASSiA was founded by Fi MacDonald selling a unique range of African home accessories in UK. With a discerning eye for new and exotic textures, colours and style ASSiA brings together the very best from a few of East Africa’s finest artisans; empowering women and communities, using recycled materials where possible and always ensuring Fairtrade.
ASSiA sells online throughout the year and at Charity Fairs across the UK during Autumn/Winter. Based in the Scottish Borders we can post anywhere in the world. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep up to date with our news and enjoy our African inspired living.
Karibu ASSiA x
Our Artisans
Baskets – The Woollen Kiondo are woven by a group of ladies from recycled jumper wool in the Karatina District, the style and choices of colour being individual as taught by older family members. The sisal storage baskets are woven by an elderly women’s group in Kitui and then hand finished with leather trims and handles in Nairobi.
The basket weavers of Kisimenyi, who are part of our new basket bins collaboration.
Glass Collection – A unique range of engraved glass and recycled wine bottles for use as glasses, water bottles, lanterns or Candle holders. These are beautifully engraved by a team of talented artisans trained by Sue Dumbelton at Ngare Ndare/Lewa.
Horn Products – made of Ankole cow horn. The horn is a byproduct of farming in Uganda, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Salad Bowls and Platters – Our gorgeous range of organic creamy Jacaranda Wood is carved by a co-operative of Kamba wood carvers in the Machakos District. Wild Olive wood is all sustainably sourced from private plantations in Kissi. In compliance with Kenyan regulations, official licences for tree felling are strictly adhered to.
Beaded Products – BeadWORKS partners with established women's groups in conservancies to help them turn their traditional craft skills into a viable, sustainable business. BeadWORKS currently empowers 1,190 women in nine conservancies, including 108 Star Beaders, who are making beaded jewellery, trinkets and accessories.