Talented artisans in Vohimana, Madagascar are weaving beautiful bags using sustainable materials and traditional weaving techniques. This handbag project supports long-term economic and community development in Madagascar.

The sale of these products enables families to gain economic independence and earn fair compensation for their talent and hard work. These efforts support sustainable development projects. While local farmers work on agricultural intensification and diversification projects to reduce their dependence on slash-and-burn farming, the women of Vohimana contribute to the effort by sharing their artistry with the world, generating funding for community projects such as school construction, sanitation systems and reforestation. Sales support community and economic development efforts, such as clean water systems and rainforest preservation.

How the group started:
In 1994-95, southern Madagascar experienced a severe drought that devastated crops and left thousands without food and water. At that time, Jim Sellers and his wife were participating in an Earthwatch lemur research project in the area and Jim returned home infused with a passion to help improve the quality of life for Malagasy people. He returned to Madagascar the following year in search of artists with whom he could develop trade relationships. He met artists making beautiful note cards, crafted by hand from recycled paper and pressed wildflowers. Back in the US, he reached out to fair trade retailers and developed a network of customers who carried the fabulous line of stationery products. Each year, he returned 100% of profits to Madagascar, investing in bikes for doctors to reach rural communities, medical supplies for hospitals, training for surgeons and funding for nature conservation projects. This incredible effort built the foundation for Mad Imports, a socially responsible Fair trade company. Mad Imports brings beautiful bags and stationery handmade from sustainable materials. The unique and bright bags are hand woven in Madagascar from materials such as jute, sisal, penjy reed and raffia using non-endangered wood and leather finishing.