At Lafi Bala, we are committed to offering quality works of art, while ensuring the right balance between accessibility, fair remuneration of artisans and sustainability of our model. Today, an exceptional context is forcing us to adjust our prices. It's not an easy decision, but it's a necessary one.
An extremely unstable political and security context
Burkina Faso is going through a major crisis. Since the military coup of January 2022, the country has been plunged into a political and security instability that has undermined the entire local economy. In April 2025, a new coup attempt was foiled, illustrating the seriousness of the situation. More than 60% of the territory is outside state control, terrorist attacks are on the increase, and more than 2 million people have been displaced.
For our craftsmen, this means more difficult working conditions, less secure transport and a generally deteriorated economic environment. Production is becoming riskier, slower and more expensive.
A breakdown in relations with France
Diplomatic tensions between Burkina Faso and France have had very tangible consequences. Expulsion of diplomats, suspension of cooperation agreements, withdrawal of French forces and even withdrawal from the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie: these political decisions have considerably complicated exchanges.
For us, this means :
- more complex customs procedures ;
- longer export lead times;
- the loss of certain supply and logistical support channels.
All this in a context where local authorities are stepping up their controls, without simplifying them.
Soaring raw material prices
The price of bronze, our essential raw material, has skyrocketed. Before the health crisis, a kilogram cost around 1,500 CFA francs. Today, it is over 3,000 CFA francs, an increase of 100%. As this increase has not been offset locally, craftsmen and exporters are now bearing the brunt.
Hidden inflation: administrative costs
Every piece we export has to be certified by the local authorities to avoid any risk of archaeological looting. This is a legitimate requirement, but the cost has increased fivefold overnight, without notice or justification.
Added to this are :
- more unstable transport costs: rising fuel costs, insecurity on the roads, scarcity of forwarding agents, Air France has left Burkina ;
- ever-increasing compliance costs: documents, certificates, authorizations.
A model we want to be ever fairer
At Lafi Bala, we advocate ethical trade. This means paying craftsmen a fair price, supporting them over the long term without ever cutting back on the quality of their creations.
Maintaining our commitments in this context requires agility, but also transparency. That's why we wanted to explain the reasons for our price increase: it simply reflects the reality on the ground, and allows us to continue doing what we do well and with passion.
Our mission remains the same: to offer you works that make sense, that support a resilient local economy and that tell a different story of Africa - a dignified, creative and modern Africa.
We thank you for your understanding and trust.
Every piece purchased is a powerful gesture. It supports families, know-how and a more humane vision of the world.
