Design Hub Kampala (DHK) and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Uganda joined forces and organized the first Dutch Design Mission from February 12 to 17.

During this week seven Dutch creative companies closely work together with their Ugandan counterparts. Mark Assies, one of our creative directors, joined in together with Steven de Cleen from ProudDesign. They explored the possibilities of the local creatives and tried to strengthen them by co-creation. Their aim was to help them creating ‘valuable’ design and stimulate the development of the Ugandan creative industry. It should ultimately lead to recognition of the economic value of design in Uganda. The first big step: a change in mindset from creativity as an art form into ‘design thinking,’ using the unique capacity of designers to solve problems.

In a sizzling hot Kampala, the Dutch designers worked hard on various projects.

Our Ultimaker 2 Go mobile 3D-Printer, for which we created the award winning packaging solution, proved to be helpful!

Mark says:’ I am amazed by their knowledge of human-centered design methodology, which they mainly gained from the internet. Their practical design skills need a quality boost, which is not that odd looking at today’s educational level of design studies’. He describes the trip a great experience, which enriches and deepens his view on design.

DHK, a co-working space for Ugandan creatives, aim to grow by collaborating within Uganda, but also through partnerships with international creative companies. The Dutch Design Mission is their first step to their ultimate goal to stimulate the Ugandan creative industry using the collaboration with the famous Dutch Creative Industry.