Empowering Women Through Craft: Inside Ineza Couture’s Sewing Workshop in Rwanda

At Gitzell Fair Trade, we believe every product tells a story and few stories are as inspiring as those behind our Ineza Couture collection. During my recent visit to Kigali, Rwanda, I had the incredible opportunity to witness firsthand the passion and purpose driving this women-led sewing center.

One of the most unforgettable experiences? Traveling deep into the remote hills to meet with local artisans. Winding through valleys and climbing steep rural roads, Zellipah was welcomed by women who have been weaving for generations, preserving traditional craft while creating meaningful economic opportunity in their communities. Their work is not only beautiful, it's vital to the livelihoods of many families.

Another inspiring stop was at the Nyamirambo Women’s Center for Empowerment in Kigali. This local institution provides education and vocational training to women in one of Kigali’s oldest neighborhoods. It stands as a beacon of opportunity and resilience, and it was a privilege to witness their work firsthand.

 “It’s these many small institutions—often run by women, for women—that help grow the economy of Rwanda and Africa as a whole,” says Zellipah.

Another stop on this trip was to Ineza Couture:

What is Ineza Couture?

Ineza, meaning “goodness” in Kinyarwanda, was founded in 2019 by Beny Grace and her mother Francoise with a powerful mission: to reduce unemployment among adolescent girls and young women facing difficult life circumstances. Through sewing classes, mentorship, and business training, Ineza empowers these women to build their own sustainable ventures.

To date, 67 women have graduated from the program and launched their own income-generating businesses, a testament to the workshop’s impact. Their handmade products, from beautifully crafted bags to clothing, contribute not only to Rwanda’s economy but also to the global fair trade movement.

The Products: Ethical, Practical, and Beautiful

One standout from this workshop is their Reusable Folding Tote Bag, a bestseller among our offerings. These bags combine function and style with an eco-conscious heart. Handcrafted with care and designed for everyday use, they are ideal for customers seeking sustainable shopping alternatives.

Other handmade products from Ineza Couture include sewn goods that carry the authentic spirit of Rwandan craftsmanship, perfect for retailers wanting to offer unique, ethically made merchandise.

Why Stock Ineza Couture’s Products Wholesale?

For retailers, stocking items from Ineza Couture offers several compelling advantages:

• ✅ Support Women’s Empowerment: Every purchase helps provide skills training and startup capital to women entrepreneurs, amplifying your business impact beyond sales.

• ✅ Unique Storytelling: Your customers want more than just products, they want connection. Sharing the powerful stories behind Ineza’s goods differentiates your store and deepens customer loyalty.

• ✅ Eco-Friendly & Practical: Reusable tote bags meet growing consumer demand for sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics, making them ideal for gift shops, boutiques, and eco-conscious retailers.

• ✅ Quality and Craftsmanship: Handmade by skilled artisans using traditional methods, these products offer durability and distinctive design that stands out on shelves.

• ✅ Flexible Ordering: Available in assorted colors, the products adapt to diverse customer preferences and merchandising needs.

Partner With Us to Bring Fair Trade to Your Store

At Gitzell Fair Trade, we are proud to partner with Ineza Couture and other artisan groups to connect retailers with products that truly matter. When you stock these handmade totes and sewn goods, you’re not just selling a product, you’re sharing a story of hope, resilience, and empowerment.

Explore the full range of Ineza Couture’s Reusable Folding Tote Bags and other artisan products today and join us in supporting fair trade communities worldwide.