Terms & Policies

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing, registering with, or using the Gwenge platform ("Platform"), you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be certain by these Terms of Service and any related policies. If you do not agree, you must discontinue use of the Platform immediately.

2. Eligibility and Account Registration

To use the Platform, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age or have legal capacity under applicable law
• Provide accurate, current, and complete registration information
• Maintain the confidentiality and security of your account credentials

You are responsible for all activities conducted under your account.

3. Platform Overview

Gwenge is a multi-vendor marketplace dedicated to Uganda's creative industry, specifically focusing on:

• Fashion and Contemporary products made by Ugandan designers and artisans
• Film production and editing equipment, including cameras, lighting, audio gear, and post-production tools available for sale or rent

The Platform connects buyers, renters, and vendors, and acts solely as an intermediary. Gwenge does not manufacture, own, or directly supply the listed products or services.

4. User Conduct and Acceptable Use

By using the Platform, you agree to:

• Use the Platform for lawful purposes only
• Not engage in fraudulent or misleading activities
• Not misrepresent fashion products as Ugandan-made if they are not
• Not misrepresent the condition, specifications, or functionality of film or editing equipment
• Comply with all applicable laws and regulations

Gwenge reserves the right to remove listings or restrict access for violations.

5. Vendor Registration and Verification

To sell or rent on Gwenge, vendors must provide verified business information. Vendors agree to:

• Submit accurate and up-to-date registered business details, including business name, registration number (where applicable), and physical address.
• Provide valid identification and supporting documentation for verification
• Ensure all business information remains current.
• Operate in compliance with Ugandan business, trade, and creative industry regulations

Gwenge reserves the right to verify all vendor information and suspend accounts that fail to meet verification standards.

6. Vendor Responsibilities

For Fashion Products:

• Ensure items are authentically designed, produced, or crafted in Uganda
• Provide accurate descriptions of materials, sizing, origin, and craftsmanship
• Clearly represent custom-made, ready-to-wear, or rental items

For Film and Editing Equipment:

• Provide accurate specifications, condition reports, and usage details
• Ensure all equipment is functional, safe, and fit for intended use
• Clearly state rental terms, usage limits, and liability conditions

General Responsibilities:

• Fulfill orders and rental agreements within stated timelines
• Communicate promptly with customers
• Comply with consumer protection, tax, and trade laws
• Pay all applicable platform fees and commissions

7. Orders, Rentals, and Transactions

• Gwenge facilitates the sale and rental of fashion items and film equipment, but is not a party to transactions
• Buyers and vendors are responsible for honoring agreed terms
• Rental agreement must clearly define duration, condition, and return expectations
• Gwenge reserves the right to cancel transactions suspected of fraud or policy violations

8. Payments and Payouts

• Payments are processed through secure third-party providers
• Funds may be held in escrow until delivery is confirmed or rental terms are fulfilled
• Vendor payouts are issued according to Gwenge's payout policies
• Gwenge is not liable for delays caused by payment processors

9. Fees and Charges

Gwenge may charge commissions, particularly for:

• Fashion product listings and sales
• Film and editing equipment rentals or sales

All fees will be communicated clearly and may be updated periodically.

10. Intellectual Property

• Vendors retain ownership of their designs, fashion products, and creative works
• By listing on Gwenge, vendors grant the Platform a limited license to display and promote their products
• Users may not copy, reproduce, or distribute content without permission

11. Limitation of Liability

Gwenge acts solely as a marketplace intermediary. To the fullest extent permitted by law:

• Gwenge does not guarantee the authenticity, quality, or performance of fashion products or film equipment
• Gwenge is not responsible for equipment failure, misuse, or damages during rental
• Gwenge is not liable for inaccuracies in vendor listings
• Gwenge shall not be liable for any indirect or consequential damages

12. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Gwenge from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from:

• Misrepresentation of fashion products or equipment
• Improper use of rented film or editing equipment
• Violation of these Terms or applicable laws

13. Dispute Resolution

Users agree to resolve disputes directly where possible. Gwenge may offer mediation support but is not obligated to intervene. Disputes shall be handled under Ugandan law.

14. Suspension and Termination

Gwenge reserves the right to suspend or terminate accounts if:

• Vendors misrepresent Ugandan-made fashion products
• Equipment listings are inaccurate, unsafe, or fraudulent
• Users violate these Terms or engage in harmful activities

15. Amendments to Terms

Gwenge may update these Terms at any time. Changes take effect upon posting. Continued use of the Platform constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.

16. Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Uganda.