The Launch

SAWA Shoes

This month, SAWA Shoes launches around the world. Touted as the first sneakers produced entirely in Africa from all African-made materials, they're crafted by local cobblers in Cameroon. The company is hoping to lay the foundation for a sustainable economy by exporting finished products from the continent, as opposed to simply producing raw materials that are finished in more developed countries. A noble goal, indeed, but even if they weren't doing such good, the shoes alone are worth a look. Influenced by the omnipresence of second hand clothes in the Africa,   the simple design will look as good with a pair of plaid shorts as they will with a summer suit. Which may explain why such influential retailers as Comme des Garçons, WoodWood and Dover Street Market have all placed orders.

It Takes a Village

Laces
Tunisia

Vinyl
& Rubber
Egypt

Leather
Nigeria

Canvas
Cameroon

Packaging
South Africa