Tintsaba

Tintsaba was founded by Sheila Freemantle in 1985. Her focus was on how she could help the women of rural eSwatini take charge of their lives and become independent. Starting with only 12 local women, Sheila’s guidance, dedication and innovation brought Tintsaba to what it is today. These qualities ushered Tintsaba in to become renown for refined, high quality sisal basketry weaving, and has been recognised as an industry leader and awarded repeatedly over the years.

Since inception Tintsaba has endeavoured to create a workplace that helps women grow and develop themselves, through various courses and workshops ranging in a variety of subjects such as leadership, skill-set development, training, environmental awareness and women’s health. They pride themselves on encouraging an holistic approach to not only their work but also in their daily lives.

Unfortunately, their founder Sheila Freemantle, passed away in 2012. But together and with the dedication of her husband, Richard, the Tintsaba team is able to continue in her memory. They strive to uphold the ideals around which Sheila built Tintsaba; excellence, team work, commitment to the earth and the holistic well-being of their groups.

Over the last 30 years Tintsaba has trained and worked with over 1000 women in rural eSwatini. Invoking the passion that Sheila had, they are dedicated to creating the highest quality hand woven sisal & silver products. The future for Tintsaba and Swazi women is one of independence, strength of self and to lead by example within their communities.