The creation of this factory results from a collaborative effort among public, private, and civil service sectors “to provide high-quality, low-cost products for retail consumers throughout African and international markets that prevent injury, promote hygiene and protect against debilitating disease”. In addition, the design of the footwear is intended to provide comfortable, breathable support in several climates and conditions.

World Shoe explained that these shoes will be made from durable EVA foam and infused with antimicrobial and biodegradation agents, thus contributing not only to public health, but also to reducing waste and the environmental impact of the footwear industry.

“More than half a billion people around the world do not have reliable access to quality footwear, leaving them vulnerable to injury and diseases that perpetuate a cycle of poverty”, stated Kojo Taylor, President and Co-owner of World Shoe Limited in Ghana. “We believe the new World Shoe factory will demonstrate how African innovation can propel African development and create change on a global scale. By creating a model to provide people with affordable, high-quality, eco-friendly shoes, we can support education, health and economic outcomes while protecting the environment”, he added.  

The social enterprise is planning to sell the products manufactured in this facility to North America, Europe, and elsewhere at a price point that allows the organization to scale its social enterprise and humanitarian efforts. So far, 1.5 million shoes have been ordered.

“We are creating an African brand for the world. We are fusing together a unique, sustainable product design with the ambition of a brand that stands for large-scale social good. This will appeal to socially conscious consumers everywhere and has the potential to revolutionize how we achieve greater health and economic equity”, said Astor Chambers, VP of Marketing for World Shoe and a veteran of Nike and Adidas.

About World Shoe

The social enterprise World Shoe was founded by Nigerian-born entrepreneur, Manny Ohonme, who is the company’s president. He has two decades of charity experience delivering millions of shoes to meet humanitarian needs in more than 100 countries