Online Shopping in Kidderminster

Back in 1982, a young couple with a sense of adventure decided to go to Africa and see what life was like in a newly independent country. Four happy years later, we were heading back to Europe with 2 small children and a love for Zimbabwe that has never diminished.

Once a prosperous country with a thriving economy, problems started to emerge in the 1990s; unemployment rose and inflation reached levels unmatched anywhere in modern times. In 2009, a coalition government was formed and a decision taken to abandon the local currency, in favour of the US$. This has slowed down the rate of inflation to near-normal levels, but the economy has not yet begun to recover, with unemployment levels still very high.

Zimbabweans are generally well-educated and highly resourceful. Artists and craftsmen and women use their imagination to create many lovely gift items, but buyers are few and far between. Tourists are scarce these days and most local people spend what money they have on life’s basic necessities.

I decided to set up a small company to find a market for some of the unique and beautiful things I saw on a recent visit, giving others the opportunity to treat themselves and their loved ones to something really special. Working with Jonathan Gwanzura, an old friend and colleague, we have a direct relationship with each of our producers and offer you only carefully selected, good quality items, made by people who are paid a fair rate for their work.

Why ‘Jacaranda?’ The blossom of this beautiful tree is associated with the coming of spring in Zimbabwe. As well as being a lovely season there, it brings the hope of new beginnings and better times ahead.

Keywords: african arts, african arts and crafts, gift shop, Jacaranda