The Sanata Women's Group

The Sanata Women’s Group (SWG) was formed in 2009, with the aim of empowering the women of Gilgil by utilising their fine needlework and artistic skills – probably learnt from their mothers at an early age. The Group was formed to support the Restart Crafts project and the charity arranged extra training to develop the women's skills. Ten years on the charity now enables work for around 30 women, providing them with independence and security in a town with limited opportunities.

Shortly after launching The Sanata Women’s Group the Crafts Project was contacted by Ethical Fashion ITC, an international UN backed organisation which connects small and often remote groups of artisans with the international fashion world. This resulted in a surprise order for 36,000 screen printed bags!  In collaboration with them, we have won several international design contracts from prestigious fashion houses all over the world, including Vivienne Westwood, Stella McCartney, Karen Walker and Sass & Bide.

The Restart Crafts project is a highly efficient and respected supplier of stunning bags, jewellery and accessories, all crafted using a combination of ancient skills and innovative modern techniques.  The jewellery uses vintage beads, freshwater pearls, coral, turquoise, bone, glass and silver sourced from all over Africa, creating beautiful and unique pieces, which are sold in exclusive outlets within Kenya and abroad.  

Our Crafts Project also makes a range of strong, reusable carrier bags in different sizes and fabrics, which can be screen-printed with any design, both in small and large quantities.

We have just started a new range of beaded leather sandals. We hope to raise enough money to buy a new machine so we can cut the leather for the sandals more efficiently and accurately.

We are always looking for new markets for our products, and would love to hear from retailers who would be interested in stocking our stunning designs. If you would like to place an order, please email us at: swg@restartafrica.org