Blog

Black History Month is a time to reflect on and celebrate the rich cultural contributions of the African diaspora. While the United Kingdom observes Black History Month in October and the United States in February, the appreciation of Black heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation should be year-round. One way to honour this legacy is through...

When sourcing artisanal lifestyle products from Africa, one of the most exciting aspects is the diversity of craftsmanship across different regions. Each region of the continent offers unparalleled use of sustainable materials; unique techniques and styles that are narrating the local culture and traditions. Understanding these distinctions can help you...

As businesses increasingly recognise the importance of socially responsible sourcing, traditional corporate gifting is being redefined. Cause-related corporate gifting allows companies to make a difference where it matters most—not just for clients or employees, but for disadvantaged communities. A Gift Beyond the Office The essence of...

Product development is an exciting and integral aspect of keeping your vintage African products relevant in today's global market. As you look to expand your business from local to international markets, it becomes even more crucial to diversify and stay ahead of the curve. Luckily, developing unique and innovative products can help you achieve just...

Remember the days when lip-syncing and viral dances dominated TikTok? In social media terms, it seems like many ages ago. While those elements remain part of the application’s appeal, the platform has undergone a metamorphosis, transforming itself into something far more multifaceted.  Think YouTube's vast video library meets Pinterest's visual...

Photo by Surface on Unsplash Our goal is to facilitate the wholesaling of handcrafted, heritage, and natural products. We understand that vendors' success directly impacts our success, which is why we equip them with the tools they need. To help our vendors convert browsing buyers into loyal business partners, we've compiled a list of the...

Photo by Polina Kovaleva| Pexels.com In the world of e-commerce, where the competition is fierce and attention spans are short, having captivating product images can make all the difference. As Hiral Jethwa points out in the podcast 'The Resilient Retail Game Plan,' product photography is akin to a shop window for your products. In this blog...

As you wander through the Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) in Lilongwe, Malawi, you may expect to see the usual rows of cold, sterile steel chairs that fill many airport lounges. However, this time, something catches your eye. Amidst the sea of metal, a burst of vibrant colours breaks the monotony. Clusters of handwoven cane chairs, lovingly known as...

As the aroma of pumpkin pie and cinnamon fills the air, we eagerly anticipate the joyous festivities of Thanksgiving. This cherished holiday is not only a time for indulging in delectable feasts but also an opportunity to express gratitude and create memorable moments with loved ones. Meekono offers a delightful array of premium products to elevate your...

Laini Money Clip A sleek and practical accessory designed for the modern, minimalist gentleman.  Typically crafted from classic genuine leather, this bifold clip comes in Tan and Mocha with multiple card slots. It offers a stylish and minimalist alternative to the traditional wallet. Its primary function is to securely hold bills and cards in...

In today's fast-paced world, where the convenience of online shopping reigns supreme, brick-and-mortar retailers face a unique challenge: how to attract and retain customers in the age of e-commerce. As a business owner in the retail industry, you're well aware of this shift in consumer behaviour. We come into contact with owners, most of whom...

(Image Source: Martin Gene) In the world of interior design, inspiration can be found in every corner of the globe. One of the most culturally rich and vibrant sources of inspiration is Africa, a continent with a diverse and storied history. African art, craftsmanship, and culture have long captivated the imagination of designers worldwide. We'll...

In today's global marketplace, where consumers are increasingly seeking culture-rich, meaningful products that tell stories of heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainability, it's essential for businesses creating and selling African handicrafts to stand out.  One way to do this is through creative storytelling. By sharing the stories behind these...

As the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect moment to infuse a touch of Africa's natural wonders into your Christmas celebrations. The Meekono Marketing Manager has curated a special collection of our continent's favourites– gifts that resonate with eco-consciousness and sustainability. Here's a glimpse into the gifts that we believe would be a...

Kukongola, ubuhle, mumma, uzuri, beauté, belleza... In every language, the word "beauty" conjures feelings of awe and admiration. It's a concept that reverberates across cultures, connecting hearts through a shared appreciation for the exquisite. To delve deeper, let's turn to the Merriam-Webster dictionary's definition of beauty as the quality that...

Image Source: Home Design Lover Africa, the continent that gave rise to civilisation, is home to a wide variety of cultures and traditions. Each tribe has a unique identity, and the magnificent crafts they produce effectively capture this distinction. Let's explore some of the most captivating art styles that have captivated people...

Mattel surprised skeptics with a triumphant release of their latest Barbie movie, directed by Greta Gerwig -making her the first woman to direct a $1bln movie, and starring Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, and Issa Rae.  The marketing campaign for the movie's release was an absolute delight, and one particular gem that caught our attention was BuzzFeed's...

Source: Eco-Green Energy Today's buyers increasingly factor sustainability into their purchase decisions. A survey by climate action group Avaaz found that 47% of consumers are willing to switch brands for ones with a smaller carbon footprint. Investors too are applying more scrutiny, with $1 out of every $3 under professional management in the...

Michael Jai White at the Full Circle Festival In recent years, the Year of Return initiative in Ghana has captured the attention and hearts of people worldwide. This landmark campaign, which took place in 2019, commemorated 400 years since the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in the United States. The Year of Return not only...

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of embracing cultural diversity and appreciating the beauty of different traditions and heritages has never been greater. While events like Africa Day on May 25th provide a platform to commemorate the continent's history and achievements, it often feels like a single day is not enough to...

In the remote reaches of southwest Ethiopia, a mysterious cultural tradition continues to captivate the world. The lip plate, or dhebi a tugoin, is a distinctive ornament worn by the Mursi people, who are known for their intricate craftsmanship and unique rituals. This ancient adornment is more than just a fashion statement; it is a symbol of social...

Introduction In the United States, Juneteenth, commonly referred to as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, is a yearly holiday observed on June 19. It honours the liberation of African Americans who had been held in slavery. Although Juneteenth has a long history in America, its significance is felt around the world, especially in Africa. In...

  Recent events in the global socio-political environment have had a significant impact on the pace of adoption of diversity policies and brought into stark relief issues of racial injustice and inequality in every sphere of life, that need to be addressed. The corporate world has not been spared. Thanks to the power of social media to highlight...

As the warm embrace of June envelops us, Meekono celebrates a theme that reflects our audience: diversity and inclusion. We explore the transformative power of embracing diversity and its positive impact on your business, whether you’re within the realms of retail, spa owners, corporate interior design, corporate gifts, or the enchanting world of...