Tartan is a form of woollen cloth associated with Scotland, and is universally recognised as such. Nowadays however, it is being worn not only by Scots, or those of Scottish descent, but by an increasing number of people throughout the world who simply want to associate with, and enjoy our culture. And as a country which prides itself on its historical influence on so many other cultures, and which strives to promote its ‘internationalism’, Scotland has a unique opportunity to use one of its national symbols for a greater good.

The unique method of weaving tartan can produce an infinite variety of distinctive patterns which vary according to the colours and quantity of the threads used in each. So by selecting the colours in the flags of African countries and combining them with the colours in the flag of Scotland, International Tartans have created a range of unique tartans for DR Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe - ‘Tartans for Africa’. Each has been approved and placed on the Scottish World Tartans Register and therefore has the same official standing as every other tartan. There is however a special rationale behind the creation of these tartans.

WHAT WE DO

Our primary aim is to help save and improve lives by providing an opportunity for everyone to make a contribution to humanitarian projects throughout Africa through a unique range of tartan products. Products which:

1. can be used by NGO’s to generate funds.
2. reach a far wider donating public and provide a regular income stream.
3. provide a strong common identity for both donors and recipients.
4. promote each African country internationally.
5. provide opportunities for businesses in each African country.

Already craft-workers from several countries have asked to use their respective ‘national’ design to enhance their products and create new ones.

Discussions with High Commissions / Embassies and representative bodies in the UK took place throughout the design process. Further discussions about the potential economic benefits are ongoing.