Siyakatala
Braces in Cape Town

Siyakatala started in August 1994 by Melanie Adler who took over the business from Operation Hunger who created the concept of utilising local craft made by destitute people around the country.

Operation Hunger created the concept of utilising local craft made by destitute people around the country. These people relied on Operation Hungers’ input and purchasing of their goods to help them support themselves and their families. Melanie met the local crafters when they brought their products to Operation Hunger for purchasing and this was the starting point for taking over the business. When Operation Hunger decided to give up the Arts and Crafts section of their business to concentrate on feeding in the country, Melanie took over the business and has continued at the craft market since. She makes regular visits to Kwa-Zulu Natal to purchase Zulu bead work and Zulu crafted items directly from Zulu women. The products can be purchased at the shop in V & A Waterfront Craft Market in Cape Town or by placing an order. Entry Processes (the number of processes running concurrently) Siyakatala operates as a co-op and all items are products of self-help groups. Siyakatala works directly with people in the townships and rural areas of South Africa, and neighbouring countries. All the products are hand-made and the product variety includes African bead work, Traditional musical instruments, African home decor and furnishings, Tribal accessories and Carved wooden items. Siyakatala supports many different people around South Africa, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Kenya and a few other people from other countries in Africa. Siyakatala work directly with people in the townships and rural areas who manufacture African crafts. The business is based on the idea of working at grass root level to ensure the crafters are paid up front for their goods to support these, very often, underprivileged people. The main suppliers are in KwaZulu/Natal, South Africa, where Melanie travels to purchase the craft from the Zulu ladies. The business also supports a lot of people around South Africa as well as Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Kenya and a few other people from other countries in Africa. Others work directly with Siyakatala within Cape Town where the shop is located.