Shanga Gift & Workshop — Local services in Arusha

Visiting Shanga was a highlight of our holidays. It was really inspiring to see so many people with disabilities being empowered to produce quality art and crafts. The tour is free for everyone, and you see handloom work, glassworks, beadwork, and making paper bags and other accessories.

We witnessed how handlooms were set up and operated. I was amazed at the effort it takes to set up the design on the loom. Operating it was quite interesting and needed some deft footwork according to the design expected.We also saw many artists producing intricate bead work, doing tinga tinga paintings and glass decor.

However, the best part of the tour was the glassworks section. They have a glass furnace operating on recycled machine oil. We witnessed how the furnace was cleaned and saw the making of a champagne glass, from scratch. It was really impressive.

I would encourage anyone visiting Arusha to definitely visit and support these amazing artists doing incredible work. More...

An amazing and meaningful place where handicrafts are made by the people with disabilities. We dropped by Shanga Shanga after lunch at the Coffee Lodge next to it, took a tour to understand how crafts are handmade there and eventually bought some little things to bring home for friends and family. Strongly encourage a visit to support the goodwill and empower...

A variety of activities from fascinating glass blowing to textile making on a loom are the highlights. That it's from recycled materials to employ disabled people makes it inspiring. There's a coffee tour, gift shops, a coffee shop with free wifi and a good restaurant at the location. Spend an afternoon...