A Legacy of

Craftsmanship

Two decades of bespoke jewellery, artisan training, and business development from the heart of Johannesburg.

Founded on

Passion,

Built on Excellence

Akapo Jewels was founded in 2003 by Wumba and Labi Kapo with a singular vision: to create extraordinary jewellery while empowering South Africa’s next generation of artisans. Registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission, we have grown from a boutique workshop into a nationally recognised jewellery institution.

Our name is synonymous with integrity, precision, and the kind of bespoke craftsmanship that transforms precious metals and stones into heirlooms. Every piece we create carries the weight of our commitment — to quality, to community, and to the enduring beauty of handcrafted jewellery.

Today, Akapo Jewels operates from its flagship retail home at the Ilifa Collective in Sandton City, serving discerning clients across South Africa and internationally, while continuing its mission of skills development and enterprise support.

Our Journey

Two Decades of

Milestones

2003
Founded in Johannesburg
Wumba and Labi Kapo establish Akapo Jewels with a mission to deliver exceptional bespoke jewellery and uplift the South African jewellery industry.
2004
Skills Development Programme Launched
Akapo Jewels begins formally training young entrepreneurs in jewellery manufacturing, laying the foundation for what would become an MQA-accredited programme.
2010s
MQA & SAQA Accreditation Achieved
All three qualification levels — NQF 2, 3, and 4 — receive full accreditation from the Mining Qualifications Authority and registration with SAQA.
CNN Feature
International Recognition
Akapo Jewels is featured in a CNN documentary, bringing international attention to South Africa's bespoke jewellery sector and the brand's pioneering work.
PRESENT
Ilifa Collective, Sandton City
Akapo Jewels opens its flagship retail store at the prestigious Ilifa Collective in Sandton City, cementing its position as Johannesburg's premier bespoke jewellery destination.

The People

Meet Our

Founders

Labi Akapo

Labi akapo

CEO

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Wumba Akapo

Wumba Akapo

Fouder

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WHAT WE OFFER

Our Core

Values

Uncompromising Quality

Every piece that leaves our workshop meets the highest standards of craftsmanship. We use only the finest materials and time-honoured techniques, refined over two decades of practice.

Integrity & Reliability

Trust is the cornerstone of everything we do. From transparent pricing to honest consultations, we have built our reputation on doing right by every client, every time.

Community Upliftment

We invest in South Africa's future through accredited training, mentorship, and enterprise development — creating livelihoods and building a stronger jewellery industry for all.

YEARS ESTABLISHED
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MQA QUALIFICATIONS
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PIECES CRAFTED
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CNN FEATURED BRAND
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