Fair trade

At ASIGE, Fair Trade isn’t just a label, it’s a philosophy that shapes every decision we make. We believe that ethical trade is essential for dignity, sustainability, and long-term economic justice in rural communities. Our work ensures that every woman behind ASIGE basket is empowered, respected, and fairly compensated.

We are proud to be a guaranteed member of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) and a recognised producer under Scottish Fair Trade, both of which verify our commitment to ethical and transparent business practices. Our membership was granted following a rigorous audit of our supply chain, confirming that the women in our weaving communities are the primary beneficiaries of every product sold.

If you do like to learn more about our Fair Trade certification or audit process, we would be happy to share further details.

What Fair Trade Means at ASIGE

Fair Trade is commonly defined as trade between producers in developing countries and buyers in the Global North, based on equitable terms and mutual respect. But for us, it goes deeper:  it is a long-term investment in people and the planet. We operate according to the 10 Principles of Fair Trade set out by the WFTO, which we apply across every level of our work.

1. Creating opportunities for marginalised producers

Many ASIGE weavers have limited formal education and limited access to the formal economy. We provide sustainable income, mentorship, and skill development thus helping to transform weaving into a reliable and respected source of livelihood.

2. Transparency and accountability

Our payment structures are agreed upon through open community discussions. We train women to understand the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to product delivery. We also maintain clear and honest communication with customers, sharing the stories behind each product and who made them.

3. Fair trading practices

ASIGE supplies all necessary weaving materials including elephant grass, leather, dyes, tartans, kente, fabrics, woven fugu and water to prevent upfront costs from falling on the women. We pay artisans promptly upon completion, meaning they are not exposed to the risks of delayed international sales.

4. Payment of a fair living wage

All our weavers are paid fair and regionally appropriate wages based on the time and complexity of their work. Rates are standardised across all seven communities, ensuring equal pay for equal work.

5. No child or forced labour

We strongly uphold child protection standards. Not only do we prohibit child labour, we actively support families by helping cover school related expenses from books and uniforms to stationery. We also partner with Washington and Lee University (USA) to equip local schools with educational resources, including printers, laptops and learning materials.

6. Non-discrimination, gender equity, and freedom of association

ASIGE promotes inclusion and equality across gender, sex, age, religion, disability, and socioeconomic status. We offer internal training and peer mentorship so every artisan can improve their craft no matter their background or starting point.

7. Safe and empowering working conditions

We provide a  dedicated weaving centre and places with access to clean water, safe infrastructure, and nearby clinics in case of emergency. We continuously assess these spaces to ensure they remain healthy, comfortable, and accessible. We are currently looking to partner with organizations with aligned visions so we can build proper weaving centres for the rest of the 6 communities that sit under trees to weave.

8. Capacity building

We invest in technical training, leadership development, and health education. Each weaving group is supported by a master weaver, and we regularly host workshops on topics like sanitation, conflict resolution, and advanced design techniques.

9. Advocacy for fair trade

ASIGE actively promotes fair trade through educational outreach to other producers, participation in international trade shows, and consistent storytelling across social media. We believe in building awareness as much as we build baskets.

10. Environmental responsibility

Our production process uses eco-friendly materials like elephant grass, replacing single-use plastics with sustainable alternatives. We minimise packaging waste by consolidating shipments, thereby lowering our carbon footprint. As members of the Social Enterprise World Forum (SEWF), we are proud to prioritise the health of the planet alongside the wellbeing of our artisans.

Fair Trade in action

Fair Trade is not a marketing tool: it is a lifeline. For every basket you buy, you help:

  • Provide sustainable income for women in Ghana
  • Support access to education and health for children
  • Reduce environmental harm through conscious design
  • Create global partnerships rooted in equity and respect