Mikono
The Refugee Craft Shop
The Mikono Model
Mikono – The Refugee Craft Shop is an innovative model that promotes the economic inclusion of refugees in global value chains. Firstly, JRS identifies refugees with artisanal skills. Secondly, it helps refugees create strong artisan groups. Thirdly, and most importantly it connects these groups with fair trade buyers around the world. Mikono convenes partners from the private sector to curate collections, create marketing opportunities, and make products available for sale to consumers worldwide.
Through this innovative urban livelihood model, JRS is taking a whole-of-society approach and convene new partners who are contributing their business strengths to create a global ecosystem for refugee-made products.
The Mikono Story
Mikono “Hands” in Swahili was established in 1993 as part of the livelihoods programme of Jesuit Refugee Service in Kenya. Founded by Fr James Martin SJ, Br Michael Schöpf SJ – the current JRS International Director – and other Jesuit Brothers, the goal was to give the refugees in Nairobi a place where to sell their crafts. Today. Mikono works with dozens of suppliers living in or around Nairobi, from over 10 different nationalities.
Shopping at Mikono is a tangible way to demonstrate solidarity with refugees while helping them earn valuable income. Each time someone buys a Mikono Shop product, they directly enable refugees to earn income and contribute to their host country’s economy. Each Mikono product demonstrates the talents that refugees possess and how they can become positive contributors to societies and economies.
Looking into the Future of Refugees Globally
Livelihood and economic inclusion of the forcibly displaced are a core priority for JRS around the world.
Whenever refugees flee their homes, they leave behind their livelihoods and prospects, which are critical for self-reliance. This means they often have no choice but to rely on others for an average of 15-25 years. JRS believes that it doesn’t have to be like this. Having the opportunity to work and earn a living, to be self-reliant, is one of the most effective ways people can rebuild their lives with dignity.
In most cases, all refugees carry with them are their skills, traditions, and cultural heritage. Given the opportunity, refugees can use these assets to regain their economic independence and sense of self-worth.