Hello, Fine Finders! 🙌
Welcome to this week's Special Wednesday Edition, where we take you on a journey to discover the best places to buy authentic African handcrafts directly from the continent. We've researched and identified three African countries with thriving e-commerce industries, making it easier than ever to shop for unique, artisanal products from the comfort of your home. Plus, we'll introduce you to African mail forwarding companies that can help you get your treasures delivered to Europe and North America. Let's dive in! 🛍️✨
🇿🇦 South Africa: A Powerhouse of African Craftsmanship
South Africa boasts a well-developed e-commerce industry, making it a top destination for sourcing African handcrafts online. One standout marketplace is African Crafts Market, which offers an extraordinary collection of hand-carved items, animal skins, and horns from across the continent[18]. Another gem is Swahili Modern, featuring one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted art and home decor from various African countries[20].
To get your purchases delivered to Europe or North America, consider using Aramex Global Shopper. This mail forwarding service provides you with a local South African address, consolidates your orders, and ships them to your doorstep[11].
🇰🇪 Kenya: A Hub for Handmade Treasures
Kenya has emerged as an e-commerce hub in East Africa, with platforms like Kilimall leading the way[9]. While primarily focused on general merchandise, Kilimall also showcases a curated selection of locally crafted items. For a more artisan-focused experience, check out Afrikrea, an online marketplace that connects over 5,000 African artisans with global customers[3].
To ship your Kenyan finds to Europe or North America, try Viabox. This mail forwarding company offers a free Kenyan address and affordable international shipping rates[19].
🇳🇬 Nigeria: A Rising Star in African E-Commerce
Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, has a rapidly growing e-commerce market. Jumia, often referred to as the "Amazon of Africa," is a top platform for discovering Nigerian-made crafts and products[7][9]. Another noteworthy marketplace is Konga, which showcases a wide range of locally sourced items[9].
For hassle-free shipping to Europe and North America, consider DHL Africa eShop. This platform allows you to shop from multiple Nigerian online stores and consolidates your purchases for shipping to your international address[10].
By shopping directly from these African e-commerce platforms and utilizing mail forwarding services, you can access an incredible array of authentic, handcrafted products while supporting artisans and small businesses across the continent. Plus, you'll be adding truly unique and meaningful pieces to your collection! 🌍❤️
Have you discovered any hidden gems from African online marketplaces? Share your favorite finds and experiences with us using #TheFineFind! 📸
Happy treasure hunting! 🧿✨
The Fine Find Team
The Sauce:
[1] http://www.ladybaker.pl
[2] http://www.rybkowo.pl
[3] https://google.com/maps/?ll=53.434503%2C14.555916&q=Auchan+Szczecin+Galaxy&z=15
[4] https://www.auchan.pl/pl/sklepy/Auchan-Szczecin-Kolbaskowo
[5] https://www.auchan.pl/pl/sklepy/Auchan-Szczecin-Struga
[6] https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/booksp_e/09_adtera_chapter_05_e.pdf
[7] https://ventureburn.com/2014/12/7-african-countries-booming-ecommerce-markets/?amp=1
[8] https://www.ntu.edu.sg/cas/news-events/news/details/the-growing-pains-of-e-commerce-business-in-africa
[9] https://www.webretailer.com/marketplaces-worldwide/online-marketplaces-africa/
[10] https://www.trade.gov/rise-ecommerce-africa
[11] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/different-ways-three-countries-pulling-africas-digital-commerce-9keyc
[12] https://unctad.org/news/kenya-unveils-e-commerce-strategy-better-harness-digital-economy
[13] https://sheleadsafrica.org/growth-of-ecommerce/
[14] https://www.forward2me.com/warehouses/united-states/
[15] https://www.parcelmonkey.com/shipping-companies
[16] https://www.eurosender.com/en/global-shipping/africa
[17] https://www.museorigins.org/stories/marketplaces-to-buy-african-art
[18] https://www.africancraftsmarket.com
[19] https://www.viabox.com
[20] https://www.swahilimodern.com/collections/home-decor
