About Us
MissionWe are dedicated to producing high-quality products in Zimbabwe while reinvesting a portion of our proceeds to support sustainable development, education, and community-driven initiatives within the country. By partnering with local artisans and businesses, we strive to create jobs, build long-term prosperity, and make a lasting impact on growth and future of the community we work with.
VisionTo be a leading force in Zimbabwe's sustainable economic growth, fostering thriving communities and empowering future generations through quality products and responsible investment
ValuesQuality Sustainability Community Empowerment Integrity Partnership
Ombi Msama,
Ombi Msama, meaning "Unapologetic" in Swahili, is a clothing brand born from a desire to connect with and celebrate African roots
. In 2016, the founder, frustrated by seeing “Made in China” tags on dashikis, decided to make a change. This Chattanooga native envisioned a brand sourcing directly from Africa and began collaborating with a contact in Zimbabwe.
The initial project was a custom diaper bag for the founder’s son, whose mother is from Cape Verde. This served as both a meaningful personal project and a crucial step in building trust with the Zimbabwean partner, Celia. By 2019, the collaborative venture was underway, but the challenges of running a cross-continental business quickly became apparent. Despite 12 years of entrepreneurial experience, this was a new kind of challenge. The distance, coupled with high shipping costs, led to a plan to travel to Zimbabwe in June 2020.
Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, halting travel plans and adding another layer of complexity. Despite the setback, communication with Celia continued. Finally, in August 2023, the founder made a decisive commitment: Ombi Msama would become a reality. Working across a seven-hour time difference, often strategizing at 3 a.m. to align with the team in Zimbabwe, progress was made.
In October 2023, the long-awaited trip to Africa finally happened. And in December 2023, the dream became official: Ombi Msama launched. What began as a vision in 2016 had finally come to fruition. This clothing brand, created by a determined entrepreneur, is now live and real. Stay tuned for more from this exciting new venture!