Artisans with disabilities work on handicrafts at a studio of social enterprise Shanga in Arusha, Tanzania, Sept. 17, 2026. (Xinhua/Lin Guangyao)
DAR ES SALAAM, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese automaker Jetour has extended its support to Tanzanian artisans with disabilities through a sustainable charity initiative organized organized in Arusha, Tanzania on Thursday.
The initiative, organized under the Jetour Africa Expedition 2026, purchased many handicrafts from Shanga, a social enterprise in the northern Tanzanian city of Arusha. Shanga creates employment and skills-development opportunities for people with disabilities through handicraft production.
Yuan Anguo, vice president of Jetour International, said that rather than relying solely on charitable donations, Jetour purchased handicrafts made by Shanga artisans to support sustainable value creation while promoting dignity and empowerment.
"Throughout the tour, we focus on the real needs of each local community," Yuan said, adding that the company aims to give back to communities along the route through meaningful social initiatives.
Zain Pirbhai, vice chairman of the Africarriers Group, Jetour's local partner, said that as its business grows in Tanzania, Jetour is deepening connections with the local market and communities by creating employment and contributing to community welfare.
Hazel Gumpo, general manager of Shanga by Elewana, expressed gratitude for the support from the Chinese automaker. She said purchasing Shanga products creates sustainable economic activity, enabling artisans to earn income through their skills and participate more broadly in the economy. ■