Ethical Sourcing

At AFRAKARI, ethical sourcing is not a marketing trend - it is a responsibility to the continent that breathes life into our formulas. We believe that true luxury must be as beautiful in its origin as it is on your skin. As a brand rooted in biodiversity conservation, our commitment remains steadfast: to uplift African communities while protecting the ecosystems that sustain them. 

THE AFRICAN HERITAGE CHAIN 

Our sourcing strategy is built on 'Local Value Addition'. We prioritise keeping the production and processing of our raw materials within their countries of origin. By processing seeds into oils right where they are harvested, we ensure that the economic value - and the pride of craftsmanship - stays with the local communities.

OUR SOURCING PILLARS 

  • Wild Harvested Purity: We specialise in botanicals that grow naturally in their indigenous habitats. From the Cape Kelp of South Africa’s pristine icy waters to the Marula fruit of the Limpopo belt, our ingredients are hand-harvested by local experts who respect the natural lifecycle of the plant.
  • Sustainable Harvesting (The 10% Rule): We adhere to strict environmental guidelines to prevent over-harvesting. For example, we only harvest 10% of the wild biomass of our Cape Kelp, ensuring the ecosystem remains in balance and regenerative for future generations.
  • Ethical Economics & Fair Trade: We partner with small-scale artisan farmers and cooperatives that participate in sustainable resource conservation programs. Our producers follow fair trade principles, ensuring harvesters receive fair wages and work in safe, dignified conditions.
  • Zero-Waste Philosophy: We believe in honouring the whole plant. We utilise as much of the biomass as possible, and the balance is distributed to other industries, resulting in nearly 0% waste. 

CERTIFICATIONS & STANDARDS 

Transparency is the bedrock of trust. AFRAKARI works with supply chains that conform to international ethical and organic standards, including:

  • EcoCert & Cosmos: Ensuring our ingredients meet global organic and natural cosmetic standards.
  • Ceres & USDA Organic: Validating the purity and sustainable management of our agricultural sources.
  • Union for Ethical BioTrade (UEBT): Guiding our commitment to sourcing that respects people and biodiversity.

A HAND UP, NOT A HAND OUT 

Our ethical sourcing goes beyond transactions; they are about empowerment. By choosing AFRAKARI, you are directly supporting:

  • Rural Employment: Creating sustainable livelihoods for women and families in remote regions.
  • Landscape Conservation: Funding the protection of wildlife habitats and indigenous plant species.
  • Community Development: Investing in the 'architectural' growth of rural Africa through education and economic access.