About Mothusi
Helping Hands
Everyone will have heard the expression “many hands make light work”. In Africa they have an even more upbeat take on the phrase; “Mothusi”, whose literal translation is helping hands, meaning that even a few helping hands can make a huge difference for the many.
The Origins of Mothusi
Christopher Quinton, Chairman and founder of Quincom, has spent much of his life in Africa and has a deep love and understanding of the continent and its people. On a visit to a project in South Africa which teaches new skills in a community where over half the population is unemployed, Christopher saw the keenness of the people to work to improve their lot, their desire for self-respect and financial independence and the wealth of traditional skills which were in danger of being lost. He resolved to set up a ‘not-just-for-profit’ company, Mothusi – a division of Quincom, which would both promote and preserve traditional skills, whilst at the same time creating employment.
Fair Trade all round
Probably almost every time you have bought an item which claims to have been “hand-crafted” in some developing country or other you will have had niggling concerns about working conditions, child labour, environmental pollution from factories – even quality! Mothusi has carefully sourced organisations in India and Africa which have working practices compliant with recognised and respected Fair Trade organisations*.
So what is Fair Trade? In essence Fair Trade puts disadvantaged people first. Companies have to pay fair, sustainable prices which never fall lower than the market price. Result – self sufficiency, self confidence and pride for the craftsman in his art.
In addition to iron-clad Fair Trade credentials, Mothusi is working to help craftsmen improve their lot generally by dealing exclusively with organisations that also offer health care and education to their artisans.
Green Trade
Mothusi craftsmen use locally produced raw materials, which in turn creates a chain of local employment, and where possible use as many recycled and reused materials as possible; in addition to making our products environmentally responsible, it also increases the return for the craftsman.
Our Products
Our range includes stunning and stylishly individual jewellery; accessories; home décor products; wall hangings; candles and hand-woven silkworm-friendly scarves. Whilst being of the highest possible quality, every product retains the unmistakable character of individually handcrafted items.
Every item is designed in a way which reflects generations of traditional culture and skill. Every item is created with the greatest possible care and pride. Every item is handmade to the highest possible standards. Every item is unique. Every item contains a little of the essence of the maker – and it shows!
We hope you enjoy visiting our website, we are adding new products all the time so keep coming back to visit us!
* these include the International Fair Trade Organization (IFAT) or affiliated networks such as the Asia Fair Trade Forum (AFTF) and Cooperation for Fair Trade in Africa (COFTA).
