UAE-Based Kenyan Turns Traditional Beadwork into Profitable Business

At the Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL), Kenyan expatriate Jamal Njambe is capturing the attention of attendees with his handcrafted bracelets featuring the colours of the Kenyan flag.

These vibrant pieces, made from red, green, black, and white beads, not only display his artisanal skills but also embody a strong sense of patriotism and cultural pride. Njambe’s journey into bead-making emerged from his passion for the craft, which he has successfully commercialized in the United Arab Emirates. Each bracelet takes him approximately one hour and twenty minutes to create, reflecting his commitment to quality and cultural representation.

The colors of the Kenyan and UAE flags resonate with both Kenyan citizens and locals, making Njambe's products particularly appealing. Festival visitors are drawn to Njambe's booth not only for the intricate craftsmanship of the bracelets but also for the cultural exchange they signify. Priced between 30 AED (approximately Sh1,054) and 50 AED (approximately Sh1,757), these bracelets have become symbols of unity and shared heritage during the festival.

Beyond selling his bracelets, Njambe is dedicated to teaching the bead-making craft, especially to children, promoting the festival's goal of cultural exchange and strengthening community ties. Additionally, his talents extends to acrobatics and juggling, which he showcases at various events across the UAE. In Kenya, beaded bracelets are culturally significant, especially among the Maasai tribe, where they can be sold for as little as Sh50.

The value of these ornaments increases with the complexity of their designs. The global appeal of Kenyan beadwork has surged, with international figures such as Beyoncé and Serena Williams’ daughter, along with numerous athletes, sporting these colorful accessories at major events, including the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.

This trend not only enhances the cultural significance of Kenyan craftsmanship but also elevates its visibility on the world stage, with celebrities like Omarion, Naomi Campbell, Lilly Singh, and Demi Lovato embracing Kenyan prints.