Raffia

What is Raffia? Raffia is a natural, straw-like material derived from a palm tree. Native to Madagascar, this palm species is increasingly found in East Africa due to successful transplantation efforts and depleted stocks. What makes this palm species unique are its enormous leaves, with a single branch consisting of nearly a hundred leaves. These leaves are used to produce bast fibres, which are further processed to create items such as fashionable sun hats.

To produce Raffia bast fibres, the leaves are cut vertically from the palm and dried in the sun. This process transforms the green strands into beige-coloured Raffia ribbons. Moreover, the extraction of the material is highly sustainable and environmentally friendly, governed by strict regulations. Local harvest only occurs from June to October each year, allowing the leaves to regenerate well before the next harvesting season.

Additionally, dyeing Raffia fibre can be done sustainably using organic dyes. Apart from its eco-friendly sourcing and production, Raffia impresses in the world of fashion with its soft yet durable texture. Its flexibility and resilience make it an excellent choice for crafting summer hats.