Nakara
Story

The
Early Beginning

In the early years production concentrated on Swakara garments for the Namibian and South African fur industry. In the mid-eighties Nakara started processing Swakara skins in Namibia and then began manufacturing and exporting garments for international designers.

Soon more space was needed and in 1989 Nakara built a new tannery and manufacturing plant in the Northern Industrial Area of Windhoek.

New Nakara Tannery & Manufacturing Plant

Facing Challenges

In spite of many uncertainties during the beginning phases, Nakara approached the new challenges with innovation and creativity. With the new tannery in place Nakara became the only company of its kind able to produce Swakara skins and leather products of international standards and soon started to diversify it’s product range producing upholstery leathers, which are exported to furniture manufacturers in Africa and Europe. On the manufacturing side, Nakara expanded its product portfolio with leather garmets, ostrich bags and accessories as well as game skins.

The Breakthrough

in 1990 Nakara formed a joint venture with the Finnish company “Gruenstein”. Nakara started to manufacture Swakara and Leather garmets according to their designs. Nakara entered the international market.

The Finnish / Namibian connection between Gruenstein and Nakara, Namibia’s only haute couture manufacturing enterprise, has resulted in a gratifying blend of expertise from both countries.

Designing Miss Namibia National Costumes

During its rise on the International fashion circuit, Nakara became the sponsor of the national costume for Miss Namibia in 1992. The year before, Nakara manufactured a stunning costume for Michelle McClean, in which she won the title ‘Miss Universe’.

Nakara is highly sought after and appreciated by buyers -
local and from abroad...

Honorable visits at Nakara

Visit to Nakara by President of Namibia Dr. Sam Nujoma in 1996.

Expanding the Tannery for upholstery demand

Nakara has expanded considerably in the late 1990's to early 2000's to a current size of 15.810 m2 with substantial investments being made into new machinery and equipment. Through these investments, Nakara was able to gradually diversify it's leather portfolio on the upholstery side, which eventually included aniline, semi-aniline bovine, kudu and oryx leathers, as well as waxy pull-up, fully pigmented, full grain and corrected grain.

PRESENT AND FUTURE

Today, Nakara stands as a symbol of excellence and enduring craftsmanship. Our leather has found its way into the lives of discerning customers worldwide, from furniture manufacturers and fashion houses to individuals seeking that perfect blend of quality, style, and durability. As we embark on the next chapter of our history, we carry the torch of our founders’ passion and innovation. We remain committed to crafting leather and leather products that evoke a sense of luxury, inspire creativity, and capture the essence of timeless elegance.