I step into the charming shop Natura Africa situated in The Brauhaus Arcade in Swakopmund. The delightful aroma of natural fragrances fills the air, instantly captivating my senses. The warm sunlight streams through the windows, illuminating the exquisite display of products that await exploration. I am excited to meet the passionate owners behind Natura Africa—Katja and Martin Wittneben.
As if on cue, Katja greets me with a radiant smile, her eyes twinkling with enthusiasm. She introduces herself and her husband Martin, and their genuine passion for nature and Africa is immediately evident.
“We are passionate about nature and the treasures it holds,” Martin says. “Our journey began with formal scientific training in botany and ecology at the University of Bremen, Germany. However, it was while conducting research in Namibia that we discovered our deep fascination for traditional plant uses and the wisdom they hold. This led us to explore ways of integrating this knowledge into the modern world.”
Our key ingredients are sourced from indigenous plants that grow under the harsh conditions of the African sun. These plants evolve to thrive in challenging environments, developing unique properties that make them ideal for natural cosmetics. These plants have been used for generations by traditional healers and herbalists.
To give me an idea of the types of plants and nuts they use in their cosmetics, Martin shows me a few of them on display. Marula oil is extracted from the nuts of the marula tree. It is rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamins E and C, making it a popular ingredient in skincare and haircare products. Baobab oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds of the baobab tree and is known for its ability to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. It is commonly used to soothe dry, irritated skin, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
I browse through the meticulously crafted range of natural cosmetics in their shop. With each product, they aim to capture the transformative power of African botanicals and provide a unique, sensory experience for their customers.
“Our inspiration from the African continent is developed for people who share our love for nature and Africa,” Katja continues. “We believe in the power of ethical trade, not charity, as we partner with local communities and artisans to uplift and empower them. It’s a win-win situation: we produce products infused with generations of botanical wisdom, celebrating the remarkable biodiversity of the region, and the communities get the recognition they deserve.”
“Our inspiration from the African continent is developed for people who share our love for nature and Africa,” Katja continues. “We believe in the power of ethical trade, not charity, as we partner with local communities and artisans to uplift and empower them. It’s a win-win situation: we produce products infused with generations of botanical wisdom, celebrating the remarkable biodiversity of the region, and the communities get the recognition they deserve.”
Leaving the shop, I feel privileged to have met such passionate individuals. Their story and their commitment to making a positive impact linger in my mind. Natura Africa has become more than just a brand to me—it is a conduit that connects people, nature, and a shared vision for a better world. I have discovered not just a range of exceptional natural cosmetics but a genuine connection to the heart and soul of a continent and a couple’s love for Africa, their commitment to sustainability, and their unwavering belief in the power of nature.
