About Us

At Akhada Baskets, we are more than just a brand—we are a movement dedicated to empowering Malawian artisans, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting sustainability. Founded with a vision to transform lives, we work closely with local weavers to create stunning, eco-friendly handmade baskets, wall art, and furniture. Each piece is crafted with care, using traditional techniques and natural materials, blending timeless artistry with modern design.

Through our work, we aim to provide economic opportunities for artisans, celebrate Malawi’s rich cultural heritage, and offer you high-quality products that make a difference. Learn more about our journey and commitment to making the world a more beautiful and sustainable place.

Who We Are

Akhada Baskets

is a proud woman-owned small business based in Malawi, founded in 2018 by a passionate artisan with a vision to create sustainable and beautiful handcrafted baskets. What began as a one-person operation has since blossomed into a thriving enterprise, empowering over 70 talented artisans, including 35 women and 40 youth.

We combine artistry with purpose. Guided by a strong commitment to sustainability, we focus on environmental responsibility and social impact at every stage of our production process. Through the use of locally sourced, eco-friendly materials, we ensure our products contribute to preserving the natural beauty of Malawi while supporting the livelihoods of those who create them.

As we continue to grow, we are proud to serve B2B clients across several countries, including Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and the Netherlands. These international partnerships have not only helped us expand our operations but have also strengthened our resolve to bring Malawian craftsmanship to the global stage, particularly as we navigate the challenges of Malawi's foreign exchange market.

At Akhada Baskets, we are not just building a business — we are fostering a community of artisans, promoting gender equality, and providing opportunities for youth. Our work empowers individuals to thrive and create change within their families and communities.

We are committed to growing sustainably, creating innovative, high-quality products, and continuing our journey of positive impact, both locally and globally. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to our values of social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and empowering the next generation of artisans.

Tisungane Thomson

With over six years of experience running a successful enterprise, Tisungane Thomson is the visionary founder and Managing Director of Akhada Baskets. Driven by a passion for sustainability and cultural preservation, she leads the way in economically empowering local weavers across Malawi.

Under her leadership, Akhada Baskets creates exquisite, eco-friendly handmade products, including baskets, wall art, and cane furniture—offering sustainable alternatives to plastic without compromising on quality or style.

Tisungane holds a bachelor’s degree in Arts and Humanities and is currently pursuing an MBA to further enhance her expertise. Her mission extends beyond business; she is dedicated to preserving Malawi’s rich cultural heritage by promoting traditional weaving techniques and using natural, locally sourced materials.

Through Akhada Baskets, Tisungane seamlessly blends sustainability, empowerment, and artistry, delivering products that are as socially impactful as they are aesthetically pleasing.

Vision Statement

Our vision at Akhada Baskets is simple yet ambitious: to become the most loved handwoven basket suppliers in Malawi and beyond. We aspire to be renowned not only for the quality and craftsmanship of our products but also for our commitment to empowering artisans and promoting sustainable practices. By staying true to our values and continuously striving for excellence, we aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of artisans and customers alike.

Why We Do It

Empowering Women

Empowering women is at the heart of everything we do. We partner with talented female artisans across Malawi, providing them with sustainable income opportunities and a platform to showcase their craft. By leveraging traditional weaving techniques, these women create exquisite, eco-friendly baskets, wall art, and furniture that preserve their cultural heritage while meeting global standards of quality and design.

Through fair trade practices and consistent support, Akhada helps women gain financial independence, build confidence, and uplift their communities. Every purchase you make contributes to this mission, directly impacting the lives of these artisans and fostering a brighter, more equitable future for women in Malawi.

Promoting Youth Talent

Akhada Baskets is committed to creating opportunities for the youth of Malawi by equipping them with valuable skills and a platform to thrive. Through our initiatives, we engage young people in learning traditional weaving techniques and modern craftsmanship, enabling them to earn a sustainable income while preserving Malawi’s cultural heritage.

By fostering creativity, entrepreneurship, and financial independence, Akhada inspires the next generation to build brighter futures for themselves and their communities. Every product we create not only reflects the talent and resilience of our youth but also empowers them to be changemakers in their lives and beyond.

Supporting Households

At Akhada Baskets, we believe in creating opportunities for everyone, and that includes empowering men to support their families and build a steady income stream. By partnering with skilled male artisans, we provide sustainable livelihoods that allow them to showcase their craftsmanship through our handcrafted baskets, wall art, and furniture.

When you purchase from Akhada, you’re not just buying a product—you’re directly helping over 70 families put food on the table, pay school fees, and improve their quality of life. Each piece you choose represents hard work, dedication, and the hope for a better future for our artisans and their loved ones. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in their lives while celebrating authentic Malawian artistry.