Obakki Gift Guide: Gifts That Give Back
Gifting with intention is on everyone’s mind these days and Obakki has been leading the way for over a decade. Our holiday gift guide makes it easy to choose ethical, eco-friendly Christmas presents that will feel just as good giving as they do receiving.
We worked hard all year to find the most impactful causes, ethical manufacturers and fair trade artisans to bring you stunning products that also make a difference in the real world. All of our products come with a clean conscience so you can give gifts with a greater purpose. We’ve curated a list of our most impactful products for those looking to give back. We partner with artisans and communities around the world, providing financial independence through sustainable, ethical opportunities.
A Gift With a Cause: Scarves for Water
Our limited-edition scarves have brought clean water to over 3 million people in South Sudan and Uganda. Communities in dire need of a sustainable source of water are assigned a specific scarf colour and when we sell 500 of them, 100% of net proceeds go directly toward drilling a water well.
Our Bidi Bidi scarf features a design inspired by art from women in the world’s largest refugee camp, in Uganda. Our partnership with these women is helping them start new lives after escaping civil war.
Handwoven Baskets That Support Economic Independence
The women of Kitui, Kenya weave baskets with soul. These widows and single mothers are able to feed their families and send their children to school by handweaving our baskets using natural dyes and locally-sourced sisal fiber.
Our eco-friendly baskets are handmade by our artisan partners using natural dyes and locally sourced sisal fiber. Whether you are using them as a storage catch-all or a woven plant pot, any way you style these baskets you’ll be adding a global flair to your space.
A Journey to Healing: Bags by Judith
Judith is transforming tragedy into healing with her beautiful bags. After surviving a terrifying assault, Judith began sewing these bags to deal with her trauma. Her focus and dedication have had an enormous impact on her recovery. She says that with each stitch, she is slowly taking back her power, rebuilding herself after years of suffering.
Upcycled Jewelry From Kibera
Situated in the heart of Nairobi is the neighbourhood of Kibera, and despite crushing poverty, the area has a thriving community of artists, dancers, craftsmen, and thousands of other talented residents. It is here in Kibera where you’ll find Jack and his group of artisans. Under Jack’s creative direction, they create beautiful jewelry from scraps found outside the tiny shack where they work, making them the perfect sustainable gift. Jack is the visionary of this talented collective and they’re looking to improve their quality of life through access to opportunities.
Wooden Bowls & Flatware with Generations of Skill
In northern Mali, Amadou has been refining his craft since he was eight years old. Using techniques passed down through generations, from father to son, Amadou has mastered the art of hand carving traditional wooden bowls. No complex machines. No fancy gadgets. No unnecessary complications. Just generations of knowledge and reverence for the wood itself passing through his hands.
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Sustainable, Handcrafted Gifts for Every Personality
Looking for a meaningful holiday gift? Whether you're shopping for the minimalist, the homebody, or the ritual seeker, our curated guide has you covered. Each piece is sustainably made, ethically sourced, and handcrafted by artisans around the world—ensuring your gift carries not just beauty, but purpose. From slow-made decor to one-of-a-kind treasures, these thoughtful picks are designed to suit every personality on your list.