Stepping into Mukuni Village in Zambia a few weeks ago felt like returning home. There, I encountered the women of the Booma Women Cooperative, whose presence rekindled memories of my beloved grandmothers.

My grandmothers were two of the most extraordinary women I’ve known. They epitomised everything I aspire to be in my late 20s – brimming with vitality, loving deeply and radiating wisdom.

Each moment I spent at the cooperative was infinitely precious – the red earth underfoot, the laughter echoing and the radiant smiles filled me with joy; children perched on their mothers’ backs created a scene of communal love and laughter.

A poignant African saying goes: “A home without elders is like a well without water.” Nowhere did this resonate more profoundly than in Mukuni. The work these women do is a testament to the enduring strength and essential nature of our elders in shaping a rich and vibrant home.

The concept of ‘origins’ (our magazine’s theme) evokes the foundational root from which all life springs. It is a journey back to the ancient roots that have nurtured contemporary identities, intertwining the richness of past civilisations and indigenous wisdom. This exploration forms the core mission of the Booma Women’s Cooperative.

Photo credit: Mwawa Silupumbwe

Booma Women’s Cooperative

Founded by Kamila Hejlikova in 2023, the cooperative presents a stirring narrative of Zambia – a proud tale where tradition harmonises with the abundance of nature. The women are the custodians of Mukuni’s Wild Oils, a brand steeped in local tradition.

These oils, harvested from the local forests, are crafted into pure, beneficial products used for cooking and body care, all while embodying the spirit of sustainable practice.

My role is clear: to spotlight this female-led enterprise that is pivotal in conserving natural resources through its commitment to traditional agricultural methods. Through their hands, the ancient wisdom of land and heritage is not only preserved but is also celebrated in every drop of Mukuni’s Wild Oils. This is more than business, it’s a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of Africa’s women and their unyielding dedication to the land that cradles us all.

(read the full story in issue 07)