Mathahle Stofile is in conversation with Esther Mbale from the hair and skincare brand, Kuwala.
Q: Tell us about the name of your brand, Kuwala.
Esther: Originating from the Bantu culture and embraced in regions like Malawi and Zambia, Kuwala means “to be bright”, “to shine”, “to glow” or “radiate cleanliness”. As a brand name, it conveys positive connotations related to radiance, cleanliness and a natural, luminous appearance. Its Bantu language origin adds cultural richness and authenticity to the brand, aligning with our use of indigenous African ingredients known for their natural benefits.
Q: Africa has many challenges and many reasons to be behind, as a company, why did you choose the “transformation of urban landscapes to thriving green spaces” in partnership with the Greening Lilongwe
Campaign as the one to support? What does it mean for your brand and for the people of Lilongwe?
Esther: Incorporating plant-based ingredients into our formulas is a fundamental aspect of our brand. Supporting initiatives like the Greening Lilongwe Campaign allows us to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for Lilongwe. This not only aligns perfectly with our values but also enables us to give back to the environment that provides the botanical treasures we use in our products. This initiative offers numerous benefits, including improved air quality, enhanced aesthetics, habitat creation for biodiversity, community engagement and economic growth. Supporting this initiative is a natural extension of our commitment to sustainable plant-based beauty and environmental consciousness, ensuring that we positively impact the communities we serve without negatively impacting the environment.