It’s not too early to think about adding a splash of Africa to your holidays.
This brightly painted ornament, made in Tanzania, is inspired by the hoopoe
bird. The bird is named for its distinctive call. Painted Bird Ornament, $10.
www.tenthousandvillages.com

Dhows, traditional Arabic-style Swahili sailing boats, have a centuries-long tradition of sailing along the African coast and among the spice islands. Nzito Furniture lengthens that history even further, reclaiming the hardwoods of retired dhows to handcraft furniture. The perfect patina of this chair hints at that storied past. Star Gazer Chair (flat-packs into two pieces), $120. http://nzitofurniture.com

Tanzania is a jewel hunter’s playground. The beautiful tanzanite is only found in the African nation, which is also home to diamonds, rubies, emeralds and paper, glass and more. URU Diamonds uses only Tanzanian, conflict-free jewels. Ten percent of the profit goes to help provide school fees, books and resources for miners’ children. URU Diamond Bracelets, about $200–400. www.urudiamonds.com

These adorable little hippos are made by Wonder Welders, a Tanzanian group that trains and employs disabled workers to craft artwork from recycled metal. The hippo, about 5 inches, is lacquered to prevent rusting. Larger sizes are available upon request. Wonder Welders Hippo, about $15. www.kibibidesigns.co.uk