SENEGAL

Artisan Directory
 =TABLE OF CONTENTS
WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND DESCRIPTION OF SENEGAL……….. 3-4
ACOMA ………………………………………………………………………… 5
AISSA DIONE TISSUS…………………………………………………………. 6
ARAME PATHE NDOYE ……………………………………………………... 7
ATELIERS MAAM SAMBA ……………………………………………………. 8
BINETA SALSAO………………………………………………………………. 9
COULEURS d’AILLEURS……………………………………………………… 10
DARMANCO…………………………………………………………………… 11
EBERIS INTERNATIONAL…………………………………………………… 12
FINESSE COUTURE…………………………………………………………… 13
GIE BOKK LIGGEY de THIES………………………………………………... 14
GIE les BRODEUSES de GRAND YOFF…………………………………….... 15
HANDI-CREATIONS……………………………………………………............ 16
KIRA LINGERIE……………………………………………………………….. 17
LA NAVETTE d’OR…………………………………………………………….. 18
LAAY DIARRA COUTURE…………………………………………………….. 19
MAM PRODUCTIONS………………………………………………………….. 20
NOURA STYLE…………………………………………………………………. 21
NULANGEE DESIGN………………………………………………………….. 22
OUMOU WANE………………………………………………………………… 23
PIK’ART DESIGN………………………………………………………………. 24
PROMOFIL……………………………………………………………………… 25
SOLI-SEN………………………………………………………………………... 26
TAPESTRY WORKSHOP……………………………………………………….. 27
TAF-TAF…………………………………………………………………………. 28
TISSAFRIC……………………………………………………………………….. 29
WHEPSA…………………………………………………………………………. 30
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES…………………………………………………… 31-33
ABOUT AID TO ARTISANS…………………………………………...……….. 34
PROGRAM BACKGROUND…………………………………………………… 35-37

2
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WORKING ENVIRONMENT IN SENEGAL
“Senegal is a country of tradition, culture, and color and all of these are woven into the handcrafts
that emerge from rural villages and urban workshops. The colorful baskets developed with natural
fiber and an array of colorful plastic threads either bought new from a local factory or recycled
from old and new prayer mats, stand out immediately as unique to Senegal. All of the women are
beautifully dressed from a head-wrap to their shoes, no matter what the occasion, going off to a
high-powered job, selling tomatoes on the side of the road or hanging out at the house. It is this
visual image that is so present that leads one’s attention to the beautiful woven fabric used to make
clothes, fashion accessories, decorative accessories and upholstery. In addition to the hand-woven
cloth, there is batik and embroidery, both of which show potential yet at a different scale than the
hand-woven cloth. Delving deeper into the market one finds a wide variety of recycled products of
various qualities and potential that also demands one’s attention. Leather is also widely present in
the market, from handbags and wallets to shoes, in addition to wood; however, Senegal does not
have a strong tradition of wood-carving and the majority of the products come from throughout
West Africa or are traditional objects being sold as artifacts. Metal is also found being used by a
variety of professions, from mechanics to artisans. A few producer groups were seen making
chairs, tables, beds and sofas, and an added twist was Ghanaians using metal frames to make
garden furniture and swings, weaving with plastic threads bought in the local market. From the
extreme of metal, soap is being made and sold locally, promoting the cure of various skin ailments.
And Senegal wouldn’t be Senegal if one didn’t mention jewelry being made primarily in silver but
also gold; and the tapestries of Thiès.” - Lorraine Johnson /Aid to Artisans Fall 2007

KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR EXPORTING

ƒ General pricing is high due to the cost of living and cost of raw materials
ƒ Generally communication is good through cell phones and land-lines
ƒ Packing and shipping services are available but are at the high end of costing
ƒ Dakar is Port of Exit with worldwide shipping service agencies available

For additional information go to:

www.exportfocus.com

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______________________________________________
SENEGAL BACKGROUND
Independent from France in 1960 Senegal was ruled by the Socialist Party for forty Years until
current President Abdoulaye Wade was elected in 2000. A southern separatist group has clashed
sporadically with government forces since 1982, but Senegal remains one of the most stable
democracies in Africa. Senegal has a long history of participation in international peacekeeping
missions.

Senegal is the westernmost country in Africa, and the capital Dakar is home to 2.6 million people.
Senegal’s dry season lasts from September to May with temperatures averaging in the 80’s on the
coast. The rainy season lasts from June to August with average temperatures in the 70s. The
currency in Senegal is the Franc (XOF) which is fixed to the Euro. XOF 110.0 = € 0.15.

For further information go to:

www.lonelyplanet.com
www.worldatlas.com

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ACOMA
Contact: Victor Sagna, Managing Director
Address: Km 2 av. Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar
Phone: 823-8303 or 822-3760 or 609-0900
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Acoma is a cooperative of weavers established in 1978 by a Catholic priest with the goal of helping
young people from the countryside who have moved to the urban setting of Dakar. They sell
through their production-site retail shop, exhibitions, local designers, private label corporate gifts,
and individual retail stores. The manager Victor Sagna has been with the organization for 27 years
and has received extended business training from a Canadian NGO. As of the writing of this
directory they have applied and are waiting for fair trade status from EFAT. The production
building and retail shop were donated by a Swiss NGO, they are currently financially self-
sustaining.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Travel bags, totes, handbags, small wallets, pouches, and private label silk
screened corporate gifts such as folders and computer bags

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - 50 to 100 pieces per month, depending on the product,

they can average about 700 meters per month with a maximum width of 80cm

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton, synthetic lining, they have access to
zippers, buttons, and findings, upgrades are available

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - They have experience producing custom designs

for local designers and would like to expand

EMPLOYEES - 23 total, with 8 full time weavers and 1 full time tailor

LANGUAGES - French, Wolof, and Manjack

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - They have exported small individual orders to Europe

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AISSA DIONE TISSUS
Contact: Aïssa Dione
Address: Zone Industrielle Sodida, Dakar
Phone: (221) 825-7515
Website: www.aissadione.com
Fax: (221) 825-8172
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Aissa Dione has been in business for over fifteen years creating contemporary interpretations of
traditional Mandjaque hand weaving for her two stores in Dakar, as well as for the high-end export
markets in New York, Paris, Italy and South Africa. The products have been featured in Elle Décor
magazine and Magazine Maison Française. Some of the fabrics have been selected by firms such as
Hermès and Fendi Casa and are used by designers such as Jacques Grange, Christian Liaigre and
Peter Marino. Her workshop weaves, dyes, embroiders and sews. There are over fifty full time
employees and a number of village sub-contractors.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Furniture (settees, armchairs, coffee tables) textiles (pillows, throws, bedding)
fashion accessories (handbags, luggage, stoles, scarves, traditional shoes)

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - 3000 meters of woven fabric per month

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton and raffia, interested in developing organic
cotton based products

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Works with high-end designers as well as her own
creations, very open to new development

EMPLOYEES - Average 50 total including full and part time

LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Currently exports to both Europe and the U.S.

6
ARAME PATHE NDOYE
Contact: Mme Arame Pathé Ndoye
Address: Prés Mairie Thiarye Sur Mer, Dakar
Phone: (221) 77 514-3813
E-mail: NA

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Mme Arame Pathé Ndoye started her own company after years of working in the yarn and thread
sector. She has had some regional experience in exporting. As an entrepreneur she is open to new
business opportunities through exporting.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Hand-woven scarves and shawls

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - 25 cm wide average 18 meters a day, 90 cm wide average

6 meters a day

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton and synthetic threads

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Works with other designers, very interested in

working with designers for export development

EMPLOYEES - 5 full time, additional trained weavers available depending on order size

LANGUAGES - French

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Exported to Cameroon

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ATELIERS MAAM SAMBA
Contact: Aissa Mbow or Mamar Fall (Association Des Villageois de N’dem)
Address: BP 124 Bambey
Phone: (221) 973-3040
Fax: (221) 973-3041
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Maam Samba, a seventeen year old company founded by Babacar Mbow is situated in the arid
landscape of the Baol region 75 miles outside of Dakar. The community business employs 365
people and is focused primarily on creating clothing and home décor from ancient African weaving
and dyeing techniques married with contemporary tailoring. Weaving, dyeing and tailoring shops
occupy a compound that has expanded to include small workshops in ceramics, leather, calabash
craft, metal, crochet, and embroidery. Weaving, dyeing and tailoring, however, are the backbone of
Maam Samba vision.

______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Fashion accessories, clothing, home décor, toys, table top, musical
instruments, woodcarvings, and crochet

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Depends on product category

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton, raffia, metal, wood, natural fibers,
ceramics, and calabash

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Diverse skills and materials can accommodate a

wide range of custom designs

EMPLOYEES - In addition to 6 on-site weavers, there are 120 weavers in 34 neighboring villages
as well as 30 tailors and 30 dyers (both chemical and mud dye).
LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Currently export to both Europe and the U.S.

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BINETA SALSAO
Contact: Benita Salsao
Address: NA, Dakar
Phone: (221) 824-5733
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Benita Salsao established her design businesses in 1998 creating a successful local and regional track
record. She has attended a number of trade shows in France, Germany, South Africa, Burkina
Faso, and Bermuda and continues to export to expatriates and individuals in the region. Because
Benita attends fashion trade shows on a regular basis, she understands the demands of quality
finishing and creating collections that work together.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Shawls, scarves, shoes, hats, handbags, belts, and clothing

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - NA

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton, purchases base fabrics from local
weavers like ACOMA

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Does all of her own design but she is very open
to working with other designers for export development

EMPLOYEES - NA

LANGUAGES - French, sister is an English teacher and available for regular translations

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Currently exports to both Europe and other West African
countries

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Couleurs d’ailleurs (Ambre Créations)
Contact: Vachette Sandrine
Address: Hann Plage, Impasse Des Cordias 14641, Dakar
Phone: (221) 832-7068
Website: No longer working
Fax: (221) 832-8549
E-mail: NA

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Couleurs d’ailleurs showed at the Christmas Fair in Dakar in 2007. The company is owned and
managed by a French couple. Vanchette is the designer and main contact at this point. Their
product is terrific, unique and worth investigating for future development in exports.
____________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Totes, boxes, organizers, kids furniture and accessories

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - NA

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Polypropylene and other synthetic fibers, and
dyed feathers

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for exports

EMPLOYEES - 30 total

LANGUAGES - French and Basic English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Currently exports to France

10
DARMANCO
Contact: Mme Bintou Rasoul Cissé
Address: Mermoz Imeubles Rose face Elton,
Bloc 2 Apartment 2lb, 1er étage, Dakar
Phone: (221) 77- 634- 9821
E-mail: NA

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Mme Bintou Rassoul started her business based on her life time of experience working with her
grandmother, an experience tailor. Her shop and office is next to her home where she keeps a
watchful eye on the overall quality of the product. She works with modern color combinations and
styling.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Hand-woven cotton handbags, travel bags, logo based corporate products,
folders and wallets

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - 1000 cotton covered legal folders

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Welcomes design input and corporate private

label products

EMPLOYEES - 5 full time and 20 additional producers depending or order size

LANGUAGES - French and Basic English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Not at this time

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EBERIS INTERNATIONAL (“African Exports” export arm)
Contact: Clarisse Djionne, Founder
Address: Rue Aristide de Dantec, BP 766 Dakar
Phone: (221) 77 552-6151 or 33 864-3353
Fax: (221) 33 864-3353 or 33 823-6990
E-mail: [email protected]
Website : www.eberistudio.com

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Clarisse Djionne caters to a high-end market gaining new exposure through the opening of Ebèn
Designs/Africa Outpost, a 400-sq meter showroom in the Wynwood Art District of Miami.
Djionne produces furniture for the Senegalese market under Eberis Studios which she founded in
1986. In 2004 Djionne visited the USAID office in Senegal requesting assistance in connecting to
overseas market. Through USAID’s West Africa Hub export promotion program she attended the
Sources NY trade show in 2005 and Sources LA in 2006. In February 2007 the Hub matched her
with Cost Plus/World Market, a large U.S. home décor retailer as the regional agent promoting
items from Guinea-Bissau, Mali, and Senegal.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Wood furniture, organizers, and home textiles

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - NA

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT – Wood, local and imported cotton

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for export development

EMPLOYEES - NA

LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Exporting to Europe and the U.S.

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FINESSE COUTURE
Contact: Mme Adja Coumba Diop
Address: 27 Centre Commercial Elisabeth Diouf, Marche HLM
Phone: (221) 77 630- 0775
E-mail: NA

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Mme Adja Coumba Diop is a highly motivated entrepreneur who focuses on fine machine
embroidered clothing and accessories. Having lived in the U.S. she speaks excellent English and
has a general understanding of the U.S. market. She is currently working on a collection of totes for
a major U.S. importer.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Machine embroidered clothing, bags, and totes, can also do table top

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Average about 4 dresses a day

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton, veil, linen, thioup, and bazin

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to any new designs

EMPLOYEES - 6 full time

LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Currently exports to France, the U.S., and Nigeria

13
Gie Bokk Liggey de Thiés
Contact: Cheikh Tall and Ramatoulaye Tall
Address: Village Artisanale de Thiés, BP 16 Thiés
Phone: (221) 33 951-11 31 or (221) 33 571-98 44
E-mail: NA

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Gie Bokk Liggey de Thiès is a cooperative located in the artisan village of Thiès 70 km outside of
Dakar. The village is made up of a number of retail shops and producer groups, from leather
covered baskets, grass baskets, leather goods, wood, and recycled materials. Gie Bokk Liggey has
experience working with an American wholesale importer and exporting to Europe. Their tie-dyed
leather is unique to the area!

______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Table top, handbags, baskets, small leather goods, legal folders, desk
accessories, and slippers

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - 25 cm 10 meters a day, placemats average 10 a day

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton, raffia, grasses, recycled plastic, tie-dyed
leather

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Familiar working with corporate gifts and

special orders, open to new designs for export development

EMPLOYEES - 10 full time

LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Exported to Europe, the U.S., and Burkina Faso

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Gie les Brodeuses de Grand Yoff
Contact: Awa Basse
Address: Rue 25 X Corniche Médina, Dakar
Phone: (221) 33 557-9575
E-mail: NA

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Gie les Brodeuses de Grand Yoff is an association of 16 members with supporting funding coming
from the Ambassadors’ Wives Association of Senegal. They specialize in dying and embroidery and
sell through their retail shop, local exhibitions, Embassy Wives Club, and the French military base.
They are skilled dyers with a high level of embroidery skills, and they maintain standard western
sizing for bedding and general construction for table top.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Bed covers, pillow covers, table top, spreads, and blankets

PRODUCTION CAPACITY- 10 queen size bedcovers a month with dying and

embroidery, or 80 to 100 pillow cases a month

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Use a large range of imported fabrics, local
cotton, linen, raffia, and polyester

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Has worked with a number of foreign designers,

very open to any new designs for export development

EMPLOYEES - 12 full time employees with additional women available depending on

size of order

LANGUAGES - Basic French and Wolof

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - No exports at this time, but used to foreigners in styling

and customer requirements in quality and design

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HANDI-CREATION
Contact: Antoine Sagna, President
Amina Sylla, shop Manager
Address: Nord Foire, Face Imprimerie Tandian, Dakar
Phone: (221) 77 577- 4750 or (221) 77 528- 0946
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND

Handi-Creation is an artisan association and production center for the physically disabled. The
center is focused mainly on naturally dyed batik and jewelry. Ms. Fatou Fall, founder of Handi-
Creation, has traveled widely in West Africa and is familiar with a variety of native dye plants and
minerals with an exceptionally good eye for color. Fatou is no longer involved in the day to day
running of the business but continues to offer support and guidance. Scarf and shawl collections
were introduced at Aid to Artisans’ booth at the New York International Gift Fair in 2007 with
successful results.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Naturally dyed cotton batik base fabric and finished products like scarves
shawls, table clothes, cushion covers, totes, bags and jewelry, including a new collection of
recycled flip-flop jewelry

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - In the process of organizing production in order to

address the needs of the export market, with attention to controlling color consistency in
the use of natural dyes

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton with some synthetics for linings

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for export

EMPLOYEES - 5 full time, additional artisans trained depending on order size

LANGUAGES - French and limited English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Currently exports to both Europe and the U.S.

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KIRA LINGERIE
Contact: Khady Soumré Gaye
Address: NA
Phone: (221) 680-0534
Website: www.au-senegal.com/pages/kira-creations.php
Fax: (221) 825-8172
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
The owner, Khady, has developed a very successful local business using crochet work. They sell
through local retail shops, fashion shows, and recently launched a website. Khadija is also Vice
President of RESENTEX a consortium of 50 weavers and tailors established in 2005 with
European funding as an informal consortium, Each member pays a yearly fee that provides access
to better bank negotiations, technical assistance, marketing links, networking, and a database of
resources.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Resort clothing, lingerie, and general fashion

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - NA

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Local and imported cotton and acrylic

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to custom designs for export

development

EMPLOYEES - 5 full time

LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Has exported to both Europe and the U.S.

17
La Navette d’Or
Contact: Mamadou Keneme, President
Address: Rue 26x27 Medina, Dakar
Phone: (221) 571-1087
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
La Navette d'Or was established in 2004 by a Canadian women who trained the weavers and
facilitated the donation of 7 looms through a Canadian NGO. They sell through their production-
site retail shop, individual local designers, local retail stores, and local tourist based fairs. Mamadou
is highly motivated to develop an export business, the workshop, although small, is efficient and
well organized.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Shawls and scarves

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Ranges 3 meters a day on a 30 cm wide fabric for each

weaver, or about a 100 meters a month with a range of 70 to 115 cm wide fabric

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Cotton and rayon

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for export development

EMPLOYEES - 7 weavers including the President Mamadou

LANGUAGES - French and Wolof

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - No exports at this time

18
LAAY DIARRA COUTURE
Contact: Laay Diarra, Owner
Address: Lot 64 SODIDA, Dakar
Phone: (221) 77 637- 0414 or 33 824- 4625
Website: www.laaydiarra.com
Fax: 33 825-8341
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Laay Diarra Couture is a successful fashion business that creates modern apparel for casual, resort,
evening, work, and corporate uniforms. The company is well organized with the ability to handle
high volume, selling to individuals and retailers through fashion shows and their website. The
owner Laay Diaara is also the President of RESENTEX a consortium of 50 stakeholders made up
of weavers and tailors (see Additional Resources).
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Clothing, evening, resort, casual and corporate logo apparel

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Average 50 pieces a day

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Wide variety of local and imported fabrics

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for export

EMPLOYEES - 20 full time

LANGUAGES - French and Basic English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - On-going regional export

19
MAM PRODUCTIONS
Contact: Marie-Amy Mbow, Owner
Address: BP 5276, Fann, Dakar
Phone: (221) 867- 4029 or (221) 637- 7460
Fax: (221) 825-1677
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
MAM Productions specializes in producing luxurious hand embroidered household linens for bed
and table. Creator Marie-Amy Mbow, a trained archeologist working from Dakar, takes inspiration
from the rich African archeological and cultural heritage she shares with her collaborators. Working
with a team of young designers from the National School of Fine Art from Dakar, and young
disadvantaged local women skilled at the traditional crafts of hand embroidery and needlepoint,
MAM produces luxury products enriched through the preservation of traditional heritage.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Table top, sheets, bed covers, pillow cases, cushion covers, and towels.

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - NA (depends on embroidery styles)

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Local and imported cottons

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for export

EMPLOYEES - 5 full time

LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Exported individual orders

20
NOURA STYLE
Contact: Mme Penda Gueye Sy
Address: 76 Cite Soleil, Dalifore
Phone: (221) 76 382 84 54 or 33 832 09 02
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Noura Style was founded by Mm Penda Gueye Sy who is General Secretary of the Senegalese
Dyers Association (100 members), and worked at the USAID offices for several years. Noura Style
grew out of her fascination with fashion and traditional embroidery; she currently sells directly to
individuals and the expat community through fashion shows and exhibitions. She is interested in
developing additional categories of products related to home textiles and export development.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Machine embroidered traditional and contemporary fashions including
resort ware

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Average about 3 dresses a day

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Local and imported cotton, and synthetics

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for export

EMPLOYEES - 5 full time

LANGUAGES - French and Basic English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Exported to Nigeria

21
NULANGEE DESIGN
Contact: Octavio Fleury or Abdourahmane Ndiaye
Address: BP 635 Rue Leon Armand, Rufisque, Senegal
Phone: (221) 836- 0630 or (221) 561- 2967
Website: www.nulangee.com/nulangee.swf
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Nulangee Design began 20 years ago with Babacar Niang, a self-taught artist, sculptor and designer.
Babacar finds inspiration in each of his raw materials which include iron, bronze, wood, leather,
horn. Using non traditional techniques, he creates furniture pieces which are functional, unique
and are beautifully organic art forms. Nulangee exhibited at the “Design Africa” section of the
Canadian contemporary furniture show SIDIM in May of 2007.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Small accent furniture, leather fashion accessories, art pieces, and
decorative home accessories

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Depends on item, average medium size pieces about 5 to

10 a month

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Ebony wood (not currently certified), bone,
leather, shells, steel, and recycled materials

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for export

EMPLOYEES - 5 full time

LANGUAGES - French

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Export direct to individuals

22
OUMOU (WANE) Khairy Tall, African Art
Contact: Oumou Wane, Owner
Address: Cité CFAO Villa No. 18 Derklé Castors, Dakar
Phone: (221) 363-3519
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Oumou Wane is a young designer whose mission is to create high-end quality artisan products
made from traditional textiles that capture the essence of African art. The dyes and patterns are
conceived and hand created by local artisans from traditional techniques, making each piece a
unique work of art.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Home textiles for table top, cushion covers, and bed covers

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Average 100 pieces a month

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Hand-woven cotton, natural fibers, and bead
accents

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for export

EMPLOYEES - NA

LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Exports to Europe and the U.S., can handle wire transfers
and letters of credit

23
PIK’ART DESIGN
Contact: Mamadou (spokesperson for group), Pikine Icotaf
Address: BP : 18198 Pikine Dakar
Phone: (221)531 78 30-550 or (221) 82 16-657-7274
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
The company started in 2003 by 5 young men who met at art school. They are all very talented,
energetic, and highly motivated to increase their export business. They currently export to 6
countries in Europe. They have also attended an international trade show in Italy.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Painted glass plates, platters, plaques, and boxes

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Average about 60 pieces a month depending on size and

detail of painting

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Glass from Durand in France, with some wood

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for exports that are within
their current styling

EMPLOYEES - 5 full time

LANGUAGES - French and Basic English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Export to Europe and the U.S.

24
PROMOFIL
Contact: Maiga Habi Sanata
Address: 8133 Liberté VI, Rte du Front de Terre
Phone: (221) 636-1074 or (221) 827-0907
Website: www.komkom.sn
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Promofil is a family business established in 1981 in order to promote the traditional weaving of
Senegal known as “NDIAGO”. The owner and manager Mme Maiga Sanata Diarra inherited the
business from her father. They sell through their retail store, exhibitions, corporate gifts, and some
exports to France through her daughter who lives in Paris. They have attended several regional
craft fairs like the cash and carry market in SIAO.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Handbags, small leather goods, shawls, scarves, shoes, home décor, and
corporate gifts

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - NA

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Hand-woven cotton local and imported, and
leather

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for exports

EMPLOYEES - 10 full time

LANGUAGES - French, Spanish and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Individual exports to Europe and the region

25
SOLI-SEN
Contact: Mariama Sylla, Owner or Chelkhouna Bodian
Address: Mbour BP 1995, Dakar
Phone: (221) 456-5369
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Mariama Sylla has a successful retail shop in a charming tourist area along the coast near La
Somone. She is very passionate about working with artisans within the fair trade movement with a
special interest in the development of organic cotton and natural dyes (current USAID EG
project). She has worked with Air France for over 17 years and lived in New York for several
years. She is interested in developing an export business and acting as a buying agent for foreign
buyers. She has an excellent eye for product and understands the needs of Western markets.ȱȱȱȱȱ
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Willing to work with a wide range of projects depending on the needs of
the importer. Her shop offers a wide range of textiles, clothing, toys, home décor, table top,
and fashion accessories.

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Depends on product supplier

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - NA

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Understand the need to develop exclusives for

importers

EMPLOYEES - NA

LANGUAGES - French and excellent English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES – Has exported to the US and understands requirements

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TAPESTRY WORKSHOP of THIES (Manifacture des Art
Décoratifs de Thies)
Contact: Mr. Tall, Manager
Address: Quartier Dixième, Thies
Phone: (221) 951-1131 or (221) 639-8505
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
ȱ
Tapestry Workshop of Thies has been producing very high-end “one of a kind” wall hangings since
1966. The workshop is owned by the government and is well known in the artisan sector and
internationally.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Wall hangings, tote bags, travel bags, small leather goods, corporate gifts,
and computer bags

PRODUCTION CAPACITY – NA

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT – Local and imported cotton and wool with
some indigo dyeing

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for exports

EMPLOYEES – Undisclosed

LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Exporting to Europe and the U.S.

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TAF - TAF
Contact: Thomas Nguen, Owner
Address: NA
Phone: (221)33 832-8783 or (221) 76 580-0102
Website: www.taftaf.com
E-mail: Direct via website

COMPANY BACKGROUND
Thomas and his wife have an on-line business that sells direct to the consumer as well as a portal
for importers. They have been exporting to Europe and the U.S. for a number of years and joined
IFAT (Fair Trade) in 2000. They have a core group of artisans they are committed to but are open
to working with importers and other resources. In general they have a direct sales website business
but are very interested in acting as a buying agent. ȱȱȱȱȱ
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Major focus on recycled materials for toys, table tops and home décor,
wood carvings, and jewelry. (See website for range of products)

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Depends on product supplier

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - NA

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Understand the need to develop exclusives for

importers

EMPLOYEES - NA

LANGUAGES - French and English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Exports to Europe, Japan and U.S.

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TISSAFRIC
Contact: Mme Mariam Traoré
Address: Villa No C57 Patie d’Oie Builders, Dakar
Phone: (221) 835-5770 or (221) 658-3364
Website: www.komkom.sn
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] or [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUND
ȱȱȱȱȱȱ
Tissafric was created by Mariam Traore in 1995. Tissafric is a small company that focuses on
handmade weaving influenced by Mrs. Traore’s native country of Mali where weaving is very much
part of the culture and Senegal where she has lived for twenty years. She has also been influenced
by other regional traditional weaving techniques through her travels as an air hostess.
______________________________________________
PRODUCTS - Wall hangings, clothing, table top, bedding, home décor, base fabrics, and
fashion totes/bags

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - 50 pieces per month average, 300 meters per month
depending on width

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Hand-woven cotton local wool, raffia, and
rayon

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for exports

EMPLOYEES - 5 full time

LANGUAGES - French and Basic English

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Regional exports

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WHEPSA
Contact: Dr. Viola Vaughn
Address: Quartier Sahm, Kaolack
Phone: (221) 941-7722 or (221) 942-1230 or (221) 643-6305
Website: www.10000girls.org
E-mail: [email protected]

COMPANY BACKGROUNDȱȱ
Dr. Viola M. Vaughn is the founder and Executive Director of the Women's Health Education and
Prevention Strategies Alliance (WHEPSA) and “10,000 Girls” in Kaolack. She founded WHEPSA
in 2001 to develop new strategies for offering health and educational services to girls and young
women in rural Senegal with the goal of reaching 10,000 girls and young women to help them
graduate from school and become entrepreneurs. The NGO has worked with an American
designer to develop new products, and exported more then $10,000 FOB to the U.S. Viola Vaughn
won the CNN Heroes Award in 2008, awarded to “people driven to exceptional achievement in
service to others.”

_____________________________________________

PRODUCTS - Dolls, travel accessories, home textiles, and beach accessories

PRODUCTION CAPACITY - Depends on product type

RAW MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT - Hand-woven and industrial local cotton and
imported wool

CUSTOM DESIGN CAPABILITIES - Open to new designs for exports

EMPLOYEES - 10 specific to doll project, of age producers NA at this time

LANGUAGES - French, English and Wolof

EXPORT CAPABILITIES - Exported to the U.S.

30
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
(Contact UNIDO for additional information about these groups)
______________________________________________
Atelier Leydy - Leydy is an institute of Beaux Art in Dakar, Senegal with a little over 100
students. It was founded by Oumou SY, a woman who started the institute after working in Art
Déco in Geneva. Atelier Leydy has been the costumer in many African films, as well as the first
black African Opera. Products include embroidered apparel and jewelry with some exports to
Europe and U.S. They have about 30 employees, and speak French and Basic English.

Address: Metissacana 5 Rue de Thiong. Phone: 221 76 693-2699.

E-mail: [email protected]
_______________________ _______________________
Colle` Sow Ardo Creations - Collé Sow Ardo Creations is an interesting fashion
business started by a young model with a mission to provide a platform and forum for up and
coming fashion designers in the region through her “Sira-Vision” regional fashion show and
forum. Collé Sow Ardo has 35 employees from weaving to cut and sew. They participated in the
AGOA program resulting in some exports to Europe. The Sira-Vision regional forum and fashion
show takes place every two years with 2008 coming up, it will include top fashion designers coming
from Ghana, Cameroon, Morocco, Congo, Nigeria, and two from Paris. The forum will cover a
broad range of subjects from the challenges of business development to AIDS prevention.

E-mail: [email protected]
______________________________________________
Complex Saidia - A training center for fashion founded in 1997 by a previous Yves
Saint Lauren model. They make apparel accessories, shoes, and bags made from hand-woven
cotton, linen, and blended fabrics.

Contact: Sadya Geye or Mr Sene (Manager)

Adress: Flanc des Mamelles, Route de Ngor
Phone/Fax: (221) 820 49 14 or (221) 77 514 0920
E-mail: [email protected]
______________________________________________
CSAO - CSAO is a wholesale/retail business which exports artisan products from Senegal and
other West African countries to its shops in France. They work with Maam Samba and other
artisan groups and their products include textiles, wood, plastic rugs, lightings, interior décor,
recovered plastics, and metals.

Website: www.csao.fr
Contact: Amy Sow
Physical Address: 7 Rue Joseph Gomis - Goree

31
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (221) 821 81 95 or (221) 545 43 67
______________________________________________
GA COVA - They are a GIE comprised of two groups one of batik dyers and
a second of cut and sew finishers. The batik producer are very talented and could
provide some great “one of a kind” pieces however no one in the groups has the
ability to communicate in French. Based on the limitations of their language skills,
export would be difficult unless the potential exporter is personally interested in
working hands-on with the group. Contact Babacar Gueye, Village Artisanale de
Rufisque
_________________ _____________________________
INTERFACE TRADING - After a short spell with Nestlé Senegal, Mr. Moctar
Fall was the marketing manager for seven years of the African Network for Integrated
Development (RADI), a Pan-African development NGO, where alongside his marketing functions
was responsible for following multilateral trade negotiations (GATT/WTO; UNCTAD, regional
agreements).
In 1994 Mr. Fall set up his first agricultural research and services firm which became in 2000 the
leading distributor of agricultural inputs (seeds, phytosanitary products, fertilizers) in Senegal.
Other projects followed in the area of the production of vegetables and fruit for the local market
and for export to European markets: France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and also in the processing
of fruit and vegetables. In the area of fair trade, Mr. Fall supports represents of farmers and artisan
craftsmen (drums, toys) in the production and exporting to Europe, U.S., and Australia
Mr. Fall is a founding member of the national section of Transparency International in Senegal. He
is also a member of the Board of Directors of the International Fair Trade Association
(IFAT) on which he represents the African region.
______________________________________________
L’Artisanerie - Retail shop in Dakar with a good range of artisan
craft available in the region. A good store to visit for a first time visitor for a
general overview of quality and pricing. Several artisans listed in the main
directory are shown in this shop. Presentation is typical of a general open
market approach
______________________________________________
Le Canacla - Press release “Hand-washing a new water-saving
technology introduced in Rwanda” Ministry of Health of Rwanda, is
promoting the Canacla, a new individual and public hand-washing
technology. It comprises of a small pot that is fitted with a water flushing
mechanism similar to that used in indoor toilets. The user lifts a self--closing
lever with their wrists, thus eliminating contamination that can occur when
using taps and also saving water. For a single hand wash using an ordinary

32
tap, a person can easily use 2 liters of water, compared to 0.03 liters when using the Canacla.

The Canacla was invented by Vanhercke, son of Dr Ben Vanhercke, a Belgian doctor in Dakar,
Senegal, where it was first used. Current work for high volume production is being developed in
Dakar. Website: www.courants-solidaires.be Video: see how the Canacla works on YouTube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAeBtsSgCuQ
______________________________________________

Sourd Art International - Sourd Art International is a highly motivated

and talented group of hearing impaired potters. They currently sell to the French
Army, the Sports Club, American Tennis Club, and the French Women’s club.
Exceptionally well organized workshop and production area, they do not have an on-
site kiln, they could be a linked with La Canacla for additional kiln time. Highly
recommended for export development but will need commitment from any potential
importer for kiln development.

____________________________________________
HELPFUL WEBSITES and LOCAL MARKETS
www.au-senegal.com - French site that focuses on culture and events
www.exportfocus.com - General B2B providing guidelines for exporting and networking
www.exportsenegal.com - Search tool, regulations, banking
www.state.gov - U.S. State Department, general country information
www.africaguide.com General travel guide for Africa by country, also provides listings for
handcraft
www.fita.org – The Federation of International Trade Associations, provides doing business guides

Village Artisanal de Thiés – A tourist destination about 70km outside of Dakar, wide range of
crafts and producers
N’Gaparou – Charming sea side village 1.5 hours Northeast of Dakar
Goreé Island – UNESCO World Heritage Site with a burgeoning art community
Christmas Market – December market located on a lovely spot over looking sea in Dakar
Soumbedioune Artisan's Market – A tourist destination and craft market in northwest Dakar
Dakar Markets – There are many markets in Dakar with a wide range of goods, including hand
made products and textiles
Local Markets – A range of crafts and producers which vary by region can be found in local
markets in Ziguinchor, St. Lious, Rufisque, and Kaolack in addition to other cities.
______________________________________________

33
___________________________________________________

ABOUT AID TO ARTISANS

“We create opportunities for artisans around the world to build profitable, sustainable
businesses inspired by handmade traditions by offering, through partnerships, access to
new markets, business training and design innovation.”

Aid to Artisans (ATA), an international nonprofit organization, is a recognized leader of economic

development for the craft industry. By linking artisans to new markets and buyers to culturally
meaningful and innovative products, ATA provides needed economic opportunities to artisans
while preserving the beauty of global handmade crafts.

WHAT WE DO

In its over thirty years Aid to Artisans (ATA) has changed the lives of thousands of artisans
through its “Market Link” program of product design, production assistance and business skills
training. In developing countries, handcrafts continue to provide an important source of income,
especially in rural areas and especially for women.

Through ATA and its Trade Network, artisan groups around the world have become self-
sustaining. Because ATA's goal is to link the artisans to markets, we provide assistance in all stages
of that process, including product development and design, business development, market entry,
and working with clients.

For more information go to:

www.aidtoartisans.org

______________________________________________

34
_____________________________________________________________________________

UNIDO - The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) helps

developing countries and economies in transition in their fight against marginalization. To improve
standards of living through industries that are both internationally competitive and environmentally
sustainable, the Organization has created large portfolio of projects focused on Small and Medium
Enterprise development. One of the main focuses is on promoting their sustainable growth - the
key generator of wealth in most developing countries.

UNIDO Senegal Representative: Edme Koffi

Address: P.O. Box 154
Immeuble Faycal, 19 Rue Parchappe, Dakar
Telephone: (221) 33 8231876
Fax: (221) 33 8235746
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.unido.org/office/senegal
Also Contact: Olimpia Panfil
E-mail: [email protected]
______________________________________________
USAID Program for Economic Growth – USAID EG builds on
USAID/Senegal’s successful work on competitiveness enhancement and the Government of
Senegal’s accelerated growth strategy. The program has three components:
x Business Development Services that focus on supporting growth of high potential sub
sectors to increase investment, trade and competitiveness.
x Public Private Partnerships that attract private investment for efficient delivery of public
goods and services.
x Policy Reforms for improved business environment.
The BDS component invests in some of Senegal’s high potential sub sectors which offer products
that are in high demand in the local and international markets. These include artisanal textiles,
mangos, cashews, bissap, dairy products, fonio, banana, organic and fair-trade cotton and sesame.
The component focuses on competitiveness by using a value chain approach, combined with
market-based strategies to deliver business tools and techniques. The goal under this component is
to promote value addition locally at every possible juncture along the value chain from seed to
supermarket. Furthermore, this component works to facilitate Senegalese exporters to benefit from
the US Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

Contact: Regina Brown, Chief of Party

E-mail: [email protected] , [email protected]
Also Contact:
Dr Patrick Nugawela, Technical Lead, BDS Component
E-mail: [email protected]
Address: Route de Ngor- Almadies, à côté de la Graine d'Or
B.P. BP 45381 Ngor - Dakar, Senegal
Phone: (221) 33 869-7730 or (221) 33 869-7734
Fax: (221) 33 820- 2769
_____________________________________________________________________________

35
______________________________________________
West Africa Trade Hub - The West Africa Trade Hub is funded through and
managed by the USAID Regional Mission for West Africa (USAID/WA) to promote trade
throughout the region and help West African exporters compete in the international market,
especially through the duty-free status created by African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA).
The West Africa Trade Hub also stimulates job creation in West Africa through expanded
investment in manufactured apparel, shea butter, home décor and fashion accessories, fish and
seafood and processed cashews, as well as some specialty foods.

Website: http://www.watradehub.com
Contact: Elitza Barzakova, Enterprise Development Advisor
E-mail: [email protected]
Office: (233) 21.773.393
Fax: (233) 21.782.231
______________________________________________
Resentex - Resentex is a profession forum for textile and clothing businesses, NGOs and
artisans in Senegal. They have a list of members who include many of the artisans in the directory,
as well as a number of additional artisan groups.

Website: http://resentex.com
Contact: Laay Diaara, President
E-mail: [email protected]
______________________________________________
Sodefitex - A primarily nationalized cotton processing and export company.

Website: http://www.sodefitex.sn
______________________________________________

ASEPEX – The Senegal Export Promotion Agency is a public sector body

responsible for promoting exports from Senegal

Website: http://www.asepex.sn/
E-mail: [email protected]
Address: Route du Meridien Président Almadies
BP 14709 Dakar Peytavin, Senegal
Phone: (221) 33 869 20 21
Fax: (221) 33 869 20 22
______________________________________________

36
______________________________________________
PROGRAM BACKGROUND
Aid to Artisans (ATA) is collaborating with UNIDO's projects in Senegal that focus on SME
development and in assisting artisans in accessing markets more effectively. ATA's activities
contribute to UNIDO's efforts to link small business development approach with market access
initiatives for selected artisan enterprises, drawing on ATA’s 30-years of experience in producer
development, enterprise-level capacity-building, and facilitating appropriate market linkages.
UNIDO’s Private Sector Development activities in Senegal commenced in 2002 and led to the
implementation of a variety of projects in network development for SME assistance that focuses
on developing joint business ventures. UNIDO also commissioned the “Gateway” study to assess
the viability of various artisan producer groups in Senegal and their possible links to export market
opportunities.

As part of ATA’s sub-contract with the International Resources Group (IRG), in conjunction with
the USAID Economic Growth (EG) project that builds on USAID/Senegal’s work on
competitiveness enhancement, technical assistance is provided in the area of Business
Development Services for printed and dyed hand-woven cloth and handcrafts. ATA and USAID
EG are also implementing a pilot project using village level technology for hand spun organic
cotton developed for high end export markets.

______________________________________________

37