AfriCan

Unity Design's AfriCan project creates a range of gift products using boxes, card and paper, the ring-pulls from the tops of discarded tin cans and beads.

The project has been running for over ten years, and has been very successful over this time in paying three full time staff salaries. Over the years the AfriCan product range has evolved to include interior décor items such as curtains, wall panels and furniture, as well as custom fitted interior finishes, which have been delivered to companies such as Nandos and Network#BBDO.

By utilising the discarded tops of tin cans in its products and selling these products to private and corporate buyers, AfriCan is effectively up-cycling and adding value to waste.

This up-cycling has opening up new revenue opportunities for people who otherwise would have had no access to economic and social development opportunities.