CHAKO is a social enterprise operating in Mndo, Zanzibar, with a mission to increase economic opportunity on the island. Starting in 2010, CHAKO began creating unique and innovative products from recycled waste in a small workplace at Zenji Hotel. As demand grew, CHAKO expanded, and now offers a wide variety of products that reach not only tourists but also people around the globe.

One of CHAKO's signature products is their upcycled bottles, which are transformed into beautiful and one-of-a-kind items such as jars, lamps, T-lights, and drinking glasses. Each bottle is unique, with different shades of green and transparent glass, sometimes enhanced with carved wood. CHAKO also focuses on preserving traditional carving skills and providing on-the-job training to its artisans, creating a safe and family-like atmosphere in their workshop.

As a proud member of the World Fair Trade Organization since 2018, CHAKO is committed to fair trade practices. In addition to their upcycled bottles, CHAKO offers other products such as beach/shopper bags made from upcycled rice, flour, and cement bags, as well as tables and floors made from broken bottles and leftover glass. They are constantly striving to become a zero waste workplace.

With a strong focus on women empowerment, CHAKO aims to create knowledge and awareness, particularly for those who do not have easy access to it in their daily lives. By purchasing CHAKO products, customers not only acquire beautiful and unique items but also contribute to the preservation of traditional crafts and the economic empowerment of local artisans