AAKS: A Brand Revivifying the Ghanaian Craft Industry.

AAKS is a sustainable accessory brand founded by Ghanaian native, Akosua Afriyie-Kumi. The brand since its launch in 2014 has grown to become a household name in Ghana and beyond. In an interview with British Library, the creator of the luxury handmade brand explained that the idea for her business was a seed that was sown at a very young age.

Growing up, she was surrounded by baskets that were mainly used as gifts and for storage. She, however, wanted more to it, she wanted to play around with it while incorporating a blend of colours and aesthetic designs. After completing Kingston University, London with a BA (Hons) Fashion degree, she moved to Ghana in 2013 to start the journey of making her long-time dream a reality. In an interview with Forbes Women Africa, she expounded; 

 “I knew that there was basket basket-making. Before, I was thinking I’ll stay in the UK and do it from here, but then I realized it’s best if I go back. It was really me coming to Ghana and seeing baskets around, and I felt nobody has reinvented this program. It was basket being sold by the roadside, and nobody had moved on”.

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Some few years down the line, with passion, hard work, dedication, and zeal AAKS is representing Ghana on the global market. The body of the bags is woven by artisanal craftsmen and women in Bolgatanga in the Northern Region of Ghana.

They employ the use of locally sourced raffia and organically made dyes. After this, the hand-woven pieces are transported to the AAKS studio in Kumasi where they undergo rigorous hand stitching to bring out a complete bag.

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This initiative has become a source of income for many weavers in the area. The AAKS handbags come in vibrant, radiating, and iridescent hues. The brand has been featured in Elle Decoration, Forbes Woman Africa, Vogue Italia, Fashion Revolution, Elle Spain, and many other platforms. 

Check out some artistic hand-woven bags by the AAKS Brand. Photos culled from the brand’s official Instagram page @a.a.k.s

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Written by Jenice Aidoo;

A young creative writer. I take inspiration from happenings around me. My works revolve around fashion, lifestyle, and travel articles. Find me on Instagram as @jeniceaidoo