Meghan Markle’s latest business venture has come under intense scrutiny following claims that the “ethical” £712 handbag promoted through her new online shop is being produced by Rwandan women reportedly earning as little as 10 pence an hour.
The Duchess of Sussex, 43, recently launched an online storefront through her brand As Ever, showcasing a curated selection of her favourite fashion items. Among them is a handwoven white bag by Cesta Collective, which Meghan was seen carrying during a trip to Colombia with Prince Harry.
The brand — co-founded by two New Yorkers — markets itself as socially conscious, pledging to provide “dignified employment opportunities for talented female artisans” in Rwanda. However, a recent investigation has raised serious questions about the pay and working conditions of the women behind the brand’s luxury products.
According to reports, some weavers in Rwanda are earning as little as 82p for a full day of work — which equates to around £1.70 per day, falling within the World Bank’s definition of extreme poverty. One artisan, Didacienne Musengimana, reportedly said: “We use our income to supplement what we earn from farming, but it’s difficult. I can’t say the money is bad, but I do wish it was more.”
These revelations have cast a shadow over Meghan’s ethical branding efforts. The woven handbag, listed on her “ShopMy” page, is among several luxury items featured, including a £1,068 gown, £600 sandals, and a £148 linen shirt. Each product includes a purchase link, with a disclaimer noting that some items may contain commissionable links — potentially earning Meghan a cut from sales.
The Duchess became a minority shareholder in Cesta Collective shortly before the bag was spotlighted in her shop. The controversy surrounding worker compensation now threatens to undermine the brand’s credibility — and Meghan’s positioning as a champion of social justice and women’s empowerment.
Critics have called on the brand and Meghan to address the growing concerns and ensure that artisans are paid fair, living wages in line with the ethical principles being marketed.
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