About Us

Sia Yambire, owner and founder of Bolga-Ayia, was born into the Fara-Fara culture near the famous Bolgatanga basket weavers in northern Ghana. As a young man, he began working with American and European basket buyers in the region, which led him to start his own business in 1995.

While building and maintaining reliable business relationships with the weavers, Sia had also found ways to give back to his Indigenous communities. Various projects over the years include personally funding micro-loans, bringing medical supplies to his hometown clinic; digging a community well in his village which provides a clean and accessible water supply, facilitating a cultural exchange school program; sourcing bicycles for the local community, sourcing sewing machines for aspiring tailors; and he has grown some pretty nice mango trees at his home base in Bolgatanga.

Sia's fresh, innovative, and beautifully made baskets last for decades and are cherished by families and collectors worldwide. His commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship while incorporating modern designs has made Bolga-Ayia a household name in the world of artisanal home decor.

Since Sia's unexpected passing in late 2024, his family has come together both in Africa and here in Northern California to continue and honor his legacy and passion. They are dedicated to upholding the high standards of quality, sustainability, and community engagement that Sia embodied. Under their stewardship, Bolga-Ayia remains a beacon of cultural exchange, social responsibility, and exceptional craftsmanship.

Today, Bolga-Ayia's baskets continue to inspire and delight customers around the world. Each piece is a testament to Sia's vision of empowering local artisans, preserving traditional techniques, and creating functional works of art that bring people together. As we move forward, we remain committed to Sia's core values and look forward to many more years of sharing the beauty and spirit of Bolgatanga with the world.

Whether you're a long-time collector or just discovering the magic of Bolga-Ayia, we invite you to explore our latest collection, featuring an array of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and timeless designs that will elevate any space. Join us in celebrating Sia's enduring legacy and the rich cultural heritage of the Fara-Fara people.