Why We Choose Sisal

🌿 Nature’s Perfect Fiber

Sisal (Agave sisalana) is a hardy tropical plant that thrives in dry climates and poor soils where food crops often fail. It requires no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, grows back quickly after harvesting, and uses significantly less water compared to other fibers like cotton. While cotton demands up to 10,000 m³ of water per hectare, sisal grows well with just 1,200–1,800 mm of annual rainfall — often completely rain-fed.

💧 A Water-Efficient Alternative

Water is life, and conserving it is a priority at Shaba. Cotton and polyester (PET) fibers carry high water and carbon footprints:
: 700–1,000 mm of water per season
: 2.5–5 liters of water per kg — plus fossil fuel dependence
Sisal, on the other hand, is naturally low-impact and biodegradable. It fits perfectly into the circular economy model we strive to uphold.

🌱 Sisal & Sustainability

Our sisal is cultivated through organic, small-scale farming practices in Kenya from Kilifi to Kitui. It’s extracted using manual or semi-mechanical methods, minimizing emissions and empowering rural families. Once harvested, each leaf regenerates in 1–2 weeks, and the entire plant continues to produce for up to 10 years.

Sisal also contributes to soil conservation, supports pollinators with its seasonal flowers, and reduces the need for replanting through its natural suckers.

🌍 Socio-Economic Impact

Sisal farming is deeply rooted in Kenya’s history and economy. Once the world’s top producer, East Africa remains a leader in sisal cultivation. Today, the Kenyan sisal sector supports over 30,000 smallholder farmers, with the potential to empower 150,000 more. The crop is grown predominantly in marginalized regions, offering dignified livelihoods and job creation in areas with limited economic opportunity.

🧵 Fiber with Strength and Story

Sisal is classified as a “hard fiber,” offering: High tensile strength, Durability and resilience, Natural antibacterial properties, Moisture absorbency and breathability. These properties make it ideal for Shaba’s woven bags, giving them their iconic structure, texture, and feel  while honoring centuries of traditional craftsmanship.

♻️ Certified Low-Carbon Impact

Shaba is proud to be CIF-validated, recognizing our sisal bags as low-emission, organic, and part of a verified circular economy model. From farm to final stitch, every bag carries the legacy of sustainable, responsible fashion — handmade in Kenya for the world.