Since its beginnings in 2009, Sawa Shoes has stood out as a bold and committed pan-African brand, offering quality shoes made in Africa for the whole world. By sailing against the tide of the North/South economic flow, Sawa sources its raw materials from Africa and also processes them on the continent, creating skilled and productive jobs while changing the image of Africa in the manufacturing industry. fashion.
A starting point: Sawa Shoes x Douala
The story of Sawa Shoes begins on May 20, 2009 in Douala, Cameroon. The first shoes came out of a small factory located in the heart of the N’dokoti district, with the help of some machines found on site and others imported from Italy. The team was made up of a former boxer, Yves Bessala, nicknamed “Doctor Bess”, as well as local shoemakers and seamstresses.
In 2011, Sawa shoes began to be manufactured in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Despite the logistical and productivity challenges, the company has succeeded in consolidating its project season after season, thanks to the quality of its products and the commitment of a team proud of its achievements.
Sawa Shoes collections offer a vintage style inspired by retro tennis and basketball shoes. The sneakers, designed for men, women and children, are made with quality materials including full-grain leather, leather linings and stitched soles. The brand has also collaborated with big names such as Missoni, A1 Records, Public Enemy, Oxmo Puccino, Médecins Sans Frontières and J.Crew.
The Sawa Shoes adventure has been marked by challenges, particularly those related to corruption and supply difficulties. However, the brand has been able to persevere and establish itself as a major player in the footwear industry in Africa, proving that the continent’s economic development can be achieved through local, creative and ambitious projects.
Sawa Shoes thus represents the Pan-African spirit by highlighting quality products designed and manufactured on African soil. By contributing to job creation and economic development on the continent, the brand demonstrates its commitment to a better future for Africa. By overcoming obstacles and pushing boundaries,
Sawa Shoes proves that it is possible to transform history and present a strong, dynamic and innovative vision of Africa to the world.
