Mama Africa’s marketplace was birthed by Ifarinu Egunrinde, a Black woman from the westside of Chicago. She was inspired by the rich history of the marketplace in Africa and found herself  enamored by the vibrancy of the land. The deeply spiritual roots of the set up and the communal atmosphere of the space sparked something in her. Egunrinde saw a place to share, showcase, trade your gifts and talents. One where you can be filled and fed spiritually while also supporting yourself and your family financially. “The marketplace is the heartbeat of the people.” She says. Ifarinu first found a love for African culture after traveling there herself. After purchasing and returning home with various African handmade goods, she was shocked to find that what she bought wasn’t actually made in Africa. After a once over of her home, she realized that nothing of hers was an authentic African product. On her journey to change that, Mama Africa’s Marketplace was brought into the world!

Mama Africa’s includes both in-person and online experience. We have distribution sites across Africa. Notably in Lagos, Osun State, and our headquarters is located in Chicago,IL. At our in-person location on the south side, you will find the storefront/marketplace and the community center/temple. We also have a social media presence as well as an online e-commerce store. People can shop authentic African and Black American crafted goods both online and in store! We are your one stop shop for culture, healing, and community.