Aranda Textile Mills | 2026, Q2 Newsletter
Dear Aranda family,
At Aranda Textile Mills, heritage remains at the heart of everything we do. As we continue to honour the rich cultural traditions that have shaped our business, we also embrace innovation, contemporary design and meaningful collaborations that ensure these stories continue to inspire future generations.
Over the past few months, we've celebrated exciting product launches, supported emerging African creatives, strengthened our communities through outreach initiatives and participated in events that showcase the craftsmanship and quality behind every Aranda product.
We hope you enjoy looking back at some of the moments that have made this year so memorable.
YOUNG BASOTHO DESIGNERS COLLECTION 2026 - LAUNCH
The Young Basotho Designers Collection (YBDC) is a bi-annual initiative by Aranda Textile Mills that empowers emerging Basotho creatives by providing a platform to showcase their original blanket designs while preserving and celebrating Basotho cultural heritage. Selected designers -earn an income from their blanket sales, ensuring that their creativity translates into long-term economic empowerment.
An event was held at Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village on the 11 July to -launch this incredible new collection.
The 2026 collection introduced eight talented young creatives whose work reflects innovation, identity, storytelling and contemporary African design. The -initiative recognises Basotho culture while introducing the next generation of creative talent to new audiences, encouraging support for the collection and reinforcing Aranda's commitment to African creativity and cultural preservation.
FEATURED DESIGNERS | CLASS OF 2026
- Keneuoe "Jennie Kay" Nkuebe
- Khethang Filane
- Lerato ‘Moisty’ Masao
- Moleboheng Rosemary Mahe
- Morapeli Kebise
- Pitso Rah Makhula
- Teboho Thomas Hlehlethe
- Thato "Wave Rhyder" Molupe
HAVEN & EARTH 10th ANNIVERSARY
Haven & Earth is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. The brand was launched in 2016 with the intention of giving small independent retailers, guest houses and boutique hotels access to on-trend homeware. The range is updated on an annual basis driven by global design and colour trends for interiors.
Haven and Earth consists of a variety of throws, blankets, bed covers and scatter cushions in a selection of sizes and finishes. Natural fibres like cotton and wool also form part of the range.
Soft, refined, and effortlessly elevated. Wrap your home in understated elegance.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: WHY TEXTILE MANUFACTURERS SHOULD COLLABORATE WITH LOCAL CREATORS TO RECOGNISE AFRICAN CREATIVITY (KERRI POOLMAN)
We have noticed over the years that there is a rise of consumers buying stories not just products particularly in the design of blankets and a growing pride on local creativity in Southern Africa.
Consumers want authenticity and local identity - something we have always prided ourselves on at Aranda Textile Mills. In the world of mass production local identity has become a differentiator. It is the reason we have always and continue to collaborate with local designers in many aspects of our business. There is such an enormous pool of creatives in Africa. For us embracing this is not optional but fundamental for the future of our business and to staying ahead of the curve.
Blankets, particularly in Southern Africa are not commodities in the traditional sense. They hold emotional and cultural weight, and part of people’s lives on a daily basis. They are special. It makes sense to work with designers especially because traditional blankets require depth in design to relate to communities.
At Aranda we work with in-house designers and external talent. Over time we have learnt that the most compelling designs often emerge when you engage directly with communities and the creatives embedded within them. These designers bring nuance, lived experience and cultural fluency.
This trend came to the fore in COVID - consumers began paying closer attention to supply chains – they wanted to support local businesses and connect more meaningfully with the products they were buying. This behaviour has deepened. People care about who designs and who manufactures a product particularly a blanket. They want to know the story behind the brand.
We have found rich talent in local designers in South Africa and in Lesotho and have noticed that they introduce new thinking about blankets by using aesthetically pleasing designs with deep cultural relevance.
The textile industry is flooded with cheap imitation copies of culturally significant blankets. Partnering with designers allows us to differentiate ourselves from these by using local creative talent. It is an opportunity to reflect our African heritage in a modern way without losing its essence.
The Young Basotho Designers Collection (YBDC) is one example of this commitment. The bi-annual initiative provides emerging Basotho designers with the opportunity to see their original blanket concepts manufactured and sold, while earning royalties from every sale. More importantly, it creates a platform for authentic Basotho stories to be told through contemporary blanket design. “We have worked with many creatives in this process and it has opened our minds to possibilities”
Another collaboration that we have had is the MyAfrica designer collection which pays homage to the rich tapestry of African culture and its diversity. It gives consumers the opportunity to invest in a piece of the timeless beauty of African history. Through the collection we observe nature and art in a South African context. Aranda approaches outside local designers to produce for the collection (Viva Sage, Glorina)
KING MAKHOSONKE II MABHENA BIRTHDAY: 14 APRIL, 2026
We honoured the birthday of His Majesty King Makhosoke II Mabhena. A symbol of leadership, heritage, and cultural pride. We wished him well and stated “may your reign continue to inspire unity, strength, and prosperity for generations to come”
HOPE HOUSE: APRIL, 2026
This April, Aranda continued to make a meaningful impact in our communities
Through our ongoing commitment to giving back, we partnered with Hope House CYCC, The Sky Foundation, and the Sithandile Michaels Foundation to support the incredible work they do and the lives they touch every day.
At Aranda, we believe that even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference. Together, we can create warmth, comfort, and hope where it’s needed most.
CLARENS ART FESTIVAL: 24 - 27 APRIL, 2026
We exhibited a selection of our Basotho Heritage Blankets as well as blankets from the Young Basotho Designers Collection. We also displayed some of our artist collaborations at the Clarens Arts Festival, in partnership with The Blanket Shop.
Our stand allowed visitors to explore our innovative products, and if something caught their eye they could head over to The Blanket Shop to experience the quality and comfort of our blankets firsthand. Many friendships and partnerships were made at this special event.
MPUMALANGA FLOOD RELIEF
Aranda was part of the Mpumalanga Combo Flood Relief Programme, supporting communities through our blanket sponsorship initiative.
In collaboration with SABC iKwekwezi FM and Ligwalagwala FM, the programme created a powerful platform of awareness, live broadcast engagement, and community support aimed at bringing relief to those affected.
Through this initiative, Aranda contributed to providing warmth and comfort where it was needed most
We are proud to stand with partners who continue to drive change and support communities in times of need.
MALEH MUSIC
We were delighted to see Aranda Textile Mills YBD designer, @maleh_music who was recently featured in the Sunday Times Lifestyle and Wanted Magazine
The award-winning Afrosoul musician shared her journey of motherhood, music, spirituality and independence while also highlighting her collaboration with Aranda Textile Mills on a special Basotho blanket design under the Young Basotho Designers Collection class of 2024 inspired by her heritage, legacy and storytelling.
Music, culture and craftsmanship are beautifully woven together.
UPDATED BRAND IDENTITY: MAY, 2026
Aranda’s brand identity has been refreshed and modernised to convey a more refined and contemporary presence.
A descriptor and the established date were added beneath the company name to reinforce Aranda’s position as South Africa’s premier textile mill, emphasise its heritage, and clearly communicate its core function — strengthening trust and leadership within the market.
In a digital landscape crowded with visual noise and AI-generated content, a monochromatic mark provides a crisp, authentic, and sophisticated aesthetic.
The logo colour was updated to a deep monochromatic teal, giving the brand a single, distinctive hue that elevates its premium feel. Technically, the logo was simplified from a two-colour system to a single-colour system to improve versatility and ensure consistent reproduction across labels and branding applications.
The outcome is a cleaner, more timeless identity designed to stand out with clarity, confidence, and classic appeal.
NTATA PALO'S BRITHDAY: MAY, 2026
Aranda wished Ntate @palo_mpe their Basotho blanket brand ambassador a Happy 50th birthday - a man whose presence, wisdom, and journey continue to inspire many. We created and manufactured a special blanket he named Thebe ea Nanabolela.
The name of the blanket is inspired by the Basotho folk tale Thebe ea Nanabolela, meaning “Dinosaur’s Shield”. The story tells of twin brothers, Masilo and Masilonyane, who went to initiation school. Upon completion, Masilo refused to return home unless he was given Thebe ea Nanabolela. The tale symbolises a person willing to sacrifice everything - even risking their own life - to protect and care for others.
“Your passion, authenticity, and impact have touched countless lives, leaving a legacy that will continue for generations to come.
Thank you for carrying yourself with grace, strength, and purpose in everything you do. Here’s to 50 remarkable years and the incredible story, memories and achievements still to come.”
HER MAJESTY QUEEN MASENATE MOHATO SEEISO'S BIRTHDAY: 2 JUNE, 2026
Aranda proudly joined the Basotho nation in celebrating the 50th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso. As part of the celebration Aranda produced as a special commemorative -blanket designed in her honour. The design features a crown in the centre symbolizing royalty. Surrounding this are hearts representative of the love of the Basotho people for their queen and stars which represent her guiding light for the nation. More than a blanket, it is a symbol of pride, identity, respect, and cultural belonging.
We wished her and hoped that she continues to inspire us all with grace, dignity, and compassion.
HOTEL & HOSPITALITY EXPO (CTICC, CAPE TOWN): 10 - 12 JUNE, 2026
Aranda Textiles exhibited their Hotel Signature Collection, Haven and Earth and My Africa brands at the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa on 10–12 June 2026 at the CTICC.
Visitors could experience our finest proudly South African manufactured blankets, throws, scatters and runners. Perfect for any hospitality space.
THE PASSING OF HIS MAJESTY, ENOCK KING MAKHOSONKE II MABHENA: 10 JUNE, 2026
As the Aranda family, we were deeply saddened by the passing of His Majesty, Enock King MakhosoNke II Mabhena. We honoured and remembered the respected leader whose wisdom, dignity, and unwavering dedication to his people have left an enduring legacy.
We are grateful for the relationship we shared with His Majesty and extend our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family, the Ndebele Nation, and all who mourn this profound loss.
Lala ngokuthula, siyohlala sikukhumbula. (Rest in peace, we will always remember you).
THE BIRTHDAY OF KING LETSIE III: 17 JULY, 2026
The birthday of His Majesty King Letsie III took place in July - a living monarch who is a symbol of unity, leadership, and dedication to the people of Lesotho.
MANDELA DAY WITH PROUDLY SA
This Mandela Month, we witnessed the power of partnership in action as blankets reached the hands of those who need them most at Tholakele Centre of Hope, Sibusiso Children’s Home and KwaThema Community Hall. This was made possible by a partnership between Aranda Textile Mills and Proudly South African.
Through this partnership, 100 blankets were donated by Aranda to help keep vulnerable community members warm this winter.
For every selected blanket purchased, Aranda donated a blanket, helping to keep the spirit of Ubuntu and giving alive.
Every smile, every warm embrace and every blanket shared is a reminder that when we come together, we can make a real difference in our communities.
TUIS/HOME MAGAZINE: HAVEN & EARTH FEATURE
This iconic magazine featured one of Aranda’s key products in the H&E 2026 collection
MAMAHOTO SHAWL
Created in honour of Her Majesty the Late Queen Mother ‘Me ‘Mamohato, mother of His Majesty King Letsie III, these shawls pay tribute to a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire women across Lesotho and beyond.
Inspired by the iconic Basotho Heritage blanket designs namely, Seanamarena Poone, Marona, Motlatsi, and Kharetsa, each lightweight shawl blends tradition, culture, and contemporary African craftsmanship into a piece designed to be treasured.
MATLIANA BLANKET
Inspired by Aranda’s beloved Italiano and Tivoli rugs, the Mataliana combines a bold check design with a durable weave in a versatile wearable -size. Wrap it around your shoulders, keep it in the car, or take it on your next adventure. Made for warmth, comfort, and everyday living.
LITEMA: YOUNG BASOTHO DESIGNERS COLLECTION
Inspired by Litema, the intricate geometric patterns traditionally created by Basotho women to decorate their homes, this blanket honours the women whose strength, patience and creativity hold families and communities together.
Its interlocking forms reflect connection and unity, while the maize motif at its centre pays tribute to Lesotho’s staple food and the enduring role women play as the backbone of society.
This is more than a blanket. It is a story of home, heritage and the hands that hold it all together.
As we reflect on the first half of 2026, we are grateful for the partnerships, communities, designers and customers who continue to be part of the Aranda story.
From celebrating heritage through contemporary design to supporting creatives and giving back to the communities we serve, every milestone reinforces our commitment to craftsmanship, authenticity and African excellence.
Thank you for being part of our journey. We look forward to sharing even more exciting developments with you in the months ahead.
Warm regards,
The Aranda Team
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