African Trading Port

31/08/2026

African Initiation Dolls are more than beautiful works of art. 🌍

Found in various communities across West and Central Africa, initiation dolls have traditionally been created and used in connection with ceremonies marking important stages of life, particularly the transition from childhood into adulthood.

These figures symbolise fertility, womanhood, motherhood, beauty and protection. Their hairstyles, clothing, beadwork and decorative details reflect the identity and cultural traditions of the people who created them. 🖤

🌍 Every piece has a story. Every detail carries meaning.

Discover Africa’s rich cultural treasures at African Trading Port — Africa under one roof.

26/08/2026

🥁 Bring the Rhythm of Africa Home

Discover the rich sound and craftsmanship of our authentic Djembe Drums at African Trading Port. Traditionally played across West Africa, the djembe is more than an instrument — it’s a celebration of rhythm, culture and connection.

📍 Visit us at the V&A Waterfront

19/08/2026

A trip around Africa, right here at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town! 🌍

Pop into African Trading Port and explore beautiful artefacts from cultures across the continent. From bold patterns to one-of-a-kind pieces, there’s plenty to discover.

17/08/2026

A little behind-the-scenes from a morning of purchasing in Cape Town! 🌍🌿

Meet one of our local suppliers who brings us unique pieces. We love supporting local talent and discovering special finds right here in the Mother City.

Every piece has a story, and we’re proud to bring those stories together under one roof.

12/08/2026

Happy World Elephant Day! 🐘🌍

Celebrating one of Africa’s most majestic icons — a symbol of strength, wisdom and the incredible beauty of our continent. 🤎

12/08/2026

Did you know? 🌍

For the Pende people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the calabash is more than just a natural vessel — it can become a musical instrument!

Pende musicians use the mdimba calabash xylophone, alongside drums, to create rhythmic music that accompanies performances and dances. 🪘🎶

A beautiful example of how everyday materials are transformed into instruments that carry culture through generations.

📸 Image by Carol Beckwith & Angela Fisher. Content inspired by the African Online Museum.

11/08/2026

The Rhythm of Africa 🌍

More than an instrument, the African drum is a voice of tradition, community and celebration. From ancient ceremonies to modern-day gatherings, its rhythms have carried stories, connected communities and kept cultural traditions alive.

Discover the beauty and history behind African drums at African Trading Port.

📍 V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

03/08/2026

🧵 Every thread tells a story.

From the symbolic patterns of Kente Cloth to the centuries-old traditions behind Mud Cloth, discover the rich history and cultural significance of Africa's most iconic textiles.

Read our latest blog and uncover the stories woven into every fabric. 🌍✨

African Textiles: The Stories Woven into Every Fabric Africa is home to one of the richest textile traditions in the world. Long before modern fashion and industrial manufacturing, communities across the continent were spinning fibres, weaving cloth, dyeing fabrics with natural pigments, and creatin...

03/08/2026

South Africa is calling... 🇿🇦✨
While you're exploring the Mother City, be sure to stop by African Trading Port and discover authentic handcrafted treasures from across the continent.