A woven basket. A calabash. A box of freshly made fish rolls. Behind each product is a member of AWA who learned a skill, made something with their own hands, and is now earning from it.
At the Association for the Welfare of Albinos (AWA), we believe that skills are only the first step. An income is what brings independence, confidence and dignity. That is why we do not stop at training: we also help our producers sell.
Step 1: Learning to make
AWA trains its members, persons with albinism and their families, together with other beneficiaries, to produce goods that people buy every day: handwoven baskets and trays, calabashes, fish rolls, garri and other items. The training is practical and hands-on. Participants learn every step of production, along with hygiene, quality and how to price what they make.
Step 2: Reaching buyers
Making a good product is not enough if no one buys it. For many of our members, marketing has been the biggest challenge. Low vision makes it harder to trade in busy markets, long hours in the sun are dangerous for their skin, and stigma can keep customers away.
So AWA steps in. We showcase our members’ products at public events, exhibitions and through our network. At these events, our members display everything they have produced, from fish rolls and garri to baskets and calabashes, and we connect them with customers who value quality, locally made goods.
Step 3: Earning from their work
When a product is sold, the money goes back to the person who made it. Members earn from their own work, see the value of their skills, and grow in confidence as entrepreneurs.
Inclusion. Protection. Dignity.
The AWA motto
Why it matters
With their own income, members can buy sunscreen, pay for health care and send their children to school. And every time a customer buys a basket or a fish roll made by a person with albinism, the community sees what our members can do, not their condition. Every sale is a small victory over stigma.
How you can help
- Buy baskets, calabashes, fish rolls and other products made by AWA members, for your home or office.
- Order in bulk for meetings, celebrations, events or as gifts.
- Fund training and start-up kits for new producers.
- Share this story so more buyers discover our producers.
To place an order or support a producer, call or WhatsApp us on +237 674 715 263 or email contact@awaforcharity.org.
