ASIGE
In 2017, Dorcas Apoore established Advocacy for Social Inclusion and Girls Education (ASIGE), a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering skills-based training centers and sustainable livelihood empowerment programs for women and youth in Ghana.
Asige champion their gifted techniques of hand-weaving using natural and locally sourced materials. Within the fabric of these meticulously crafted bags lies a tapestry of intergenerational wisdom, craftsmanship, and cultural interchanges. These vibrant baskets undergo an intricate weaving process spanning up to 10 days, involving meticulous steps—from harvesting, preparing, and dyeing the straw to the meticulous weaving and finishing touches.
“Investing in women and girls is one of the surest ways to reach our sustainable development goals. When women are equipped with technical skills they can rise above the poverty lines in Ghana and in Africa as a whole.”
Their work serves as a tangible embodiment of the collaborative empowerment fostered among female artisans of ASIGE. The shape of these baskets, termed as 'roots', signify the life paths individuals traverse. Dorcas also shed light on the natural dyeing process, utilizing ground millet leaves to extract vibrant hues from veta vera, with red representing love, a sentiment cherished within the community.
Presently, ASIGE extends its reach to over 429 women across 6 diverse communities in Ghana, offering a spectrum of initiatives such as comprehensive sexual health education, provision of sanitary products, and sustainable vocational training opportunities.
Collaboratively, with the women of ASIGE, we work to amplify their impactful initiative and honor the affection and dedication invested in each woven narrative.
