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’.