Umoja
Lancine Koulibaly & Dieuvieil Ngoubou
Umòja, which means unity in the Swahili language, is a footwear brand that combines tradition, modernity and innovation while promoting African textile craftsmanship and using organic fibers. The brand combines the weaving know how of Burkina Faso and the Portuguese know how of shoe making, between tradition and modernity. The brand excludes the use of animal leather and artificial dyeing. Natural materials are favored: organic cotton, textiles made from tree bark, mineral and vegetable-based dyes.
All these materials are produced locally between Uganda and Burkina Faso by small communities of producers. Each fabric used to make Umoja’s sneakers illustrates through its patterns, geometric shapes and colors a very specific story. The sneakers are not only ethical and ecological, but also unique and artistic. To drive change by developing a collective model that is inclusive, equitable, supportive and cultural; promote transparency towards the community by ensuring full traceability of the materials used. Create plant shoe with only organic and natural fibers.
All these materials are produced locally between Uganda and Burkina Faso by small communities of producers. Each fabric used to make Umoja’s sneakers illustrates through its patterns, geometric shapes and colors a very specific story. The sneakers are not only ethical and ecological, but also unique and artistic. To drive change by developing a collective model that is inclusive, equitable, supportive and cultural; promote transparency towards the community by ensuring full traceability of the materials used. Create plant shoe with only organic and natural fibers.
