About Us

My Promise

Blessing International Market is more than a grocery—it’s a place where cultures meet. Whether you grew up with these foods or are trying them for the first time, I’m here to help you find what you need, share cooking tips, and make you feel at home. Columbus, Indiana gave me the chance to pursue my dream; serving this community is my way of giving back.

OUR MISSION

About Rita

I’m Rita Kotor, owner of Blessing International Market in Columbus, Indiana. My journey began in Togo, West Africa, where as a child I sold small items to friends and dreamed of running my own business. After taking part in my country’s struggle for democracy, I came to the United States as a political refugee seeking safety and opportunity. I lived in Minnesota and Chicago before finding a welcoming, safer home in Columbus, Indiana.

Here in Columbus, I worked days at a call center while raising a young family and saving to open a market that would serve our growing African community and anyone curious about West African flavors. In April 2020, at the height of the pandemic, I opened Blessing International Market with my tax refund and personal savings. Those early months were hard—quiet days, limited visibility, and throwing out expired goods—but I refused to quit. With encouragement from our community, I kept going. After a year, the business grew steadily, and today the store is a lively hub for authentic products and welcoming service.

What I Offer

Blessing International Market specializes in everyday African groceries and essentials. You’ll find pantry staples from West and Central Africa, including peak powdered milk, semolina, black soap, Ghanaian and Nigerian spices, palm oil, and instant noodles. We also carry cooking staples like yams and used (ripe) plantains for boiling, frying, or roasting, plus fruit cocktail drinks in cans and bottles.

For wellness, I stock menthol ointment made from herbs and imported from Togo—traditionally used to help with fever, joint pain, toothaches, and asthma. I also offer clothing, footwear, jewelry, and beaded items sourced through my sister in Togo and shipped to Columbus.

Not everything on our shelves is imported—many customers also ask for familiar everyday items, so you’ll see popular American brands like Heinz ketchup, French’s yellow mustard, and Tampico.

OUR MISSION

Why Choose Us !!

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Happy Customers

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Amazing Dishes

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Satisfied Staff

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