How can you support Malagasy craftwork through responsible purchasing?

Malagasy crafts are much more than just handmade objects. It’s the stories, the traditions and the soul of Madagascar behind each creation. Behind each piece is an artisan who puts all his/her heart and know-how into bringing a unique product to life.

By choosing to shop responsibly, you can help these artisans continue their work and preserve these treasures. Here’s how you can make a big difference with a few simple gestures.

Buy local and support our artisans

Malagasy handicrafts are made by hand, one by one, with great care and attention. Whether it is sculpture, fabric or jewelry, each piece is unique. When you buy a product made here, you’re not only helping the artisan, but you’re also helping the local economy. You’re giving value to this extraordinary work.

Why is this important to you?

Because every time you buy a local product, you’re sending a message: the work of artisans deserves to be recognized and supported. You’re helping to preserve their skills and pass them on to new generations.

Testimonial from a local craftsman: ‘When you choose my work, you encourage me to continue. It’s a great way of keeping our traditions alive.’

Choosing authentic, sustainable products

Malagasy craftsmanship is distinguished by its quality and authenticity. Each product is made from natural materials, with respect for tradition, making it durable and unique. What’s more, by choosing a handmade product, you’re choosing a quality item that is made to last.

Why is this important to you?
Because you’re choosing to be a more responsible consumer. Buying an authentic product means not only preserving the environment, but also valuing work done with passion and respect. You’re contributing to a model of consumption that’s good for the planet and its creators.

Opting for fair trade

Fair trade is a way of doing business that enables artisans to receive a fair wage for their work. This ensures dignified working conditions and mutual respect. Choosing a Fairtrade product means contributing to a fairer economy for all.

What does that mean for you? By supporting fair trade products, you’re ensuring that artisans are paid fairly. This enables them to make a decent living from their work and continue to create. You’re also part of a positive change, where every purchase is a step towards a fairer future.

Spreading the word about crafts around you

Word of mouth is a powerful weapon. If you like a product, tell people about it and share it on your social networks. Madagascan crafts deserve to be seen and appreciated by as many people as possible. Sharing these creations can change lives.

Why does this matter? Because by talking about craftspeople, you help them reach a wider audience. You become an ambassador for their work, and every time you share something, it helps the craftsman to make a name for himself, find new customers and make a living from his passion.

A craftsman says: ‘Every time someone talks about my work, it’s like a breath of fresh air. It makes me want to create even more and spread the word about our culture.

Word of mouth is a powerful weapon. If you like a product, tell people about it, share it on your social networks. Malgasy ‘s crafts deserve to be seen and appreciated by as many people as possible. Sharing these creations can change lives.

Why is this important? Because by talking about the artisans, you help them reach a wider audience. You become an ambassador for their work, and every time you share it, the artisan gets more exposure, finds new customers, and makes a living from his or her passion.

An artisan says: “Every time someone talks about my work, it’s like a breath of fresh air. It makes me want to create even more and spread our culture”.

Taking part in local events

Craft events are the perfect opportunity to meet designers face-to-face and discover their work. You can ask them questions, understand their work and see their creations up close. These moments are invaluable in strengthening the link between artisans and the community. Craft markets, fairs and cultural events are not to be missed. It’s also an opportunity to learn more about their craft and the materials they use. It’s a moment of exchange and sharing that enriches everyone.

Choosing sustainable, eco-friendly objects

Malagasy handicrafts often use natural materials and eco-friendly production methods. By choosing handmade items, you’re doing your bit for the planet. “Manjifa hanavotra ny kolontsaina” – consuming to preserve our culture and environment. Buying sustainable products is a concrete act to protect our planet. Every gesture counts and can make a big difference.

Recognising the value of craftsmanship

Craftsmen spend hours, sometimes days, working on each piece. Their work is a true art. By paying a fair price, you are recognizing their work and their passion.

Why is this important? Because by supporting a fair price, you’re helping to promote the value of craftsmanship. You enable artisans to make a decent living from their craft and encourage them to continue creating beautiful objects.

Preserving our cultural heritage

What’s more, these are ancestral skills that tell the story of our country. By supporting these crafts, you’re helping to preserve these traditions for future generations. Consuming to preserve our culture.

Every time you choose a Malagasy craft product, you’re making a difference. You’re supporting the local economy, preserving traditions and giving artisans the chance to make a living from their passion.