DIASPORA NEWS: Meet Kenyan Successfully Selling Bracelets In The UAE
In true Kenyan flair, a Kenyan man living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has monetized his bead-making abilities by creating and selling the iconic Kenyan flag bracelet.
Jamal Njambe has become a fixture at the Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL), capturing festivalgoers with his stunning red, green, black, and white wristbands, which have become synonymous with Kenyan patriotism.
🇰🇪 Kenyan Entrepreneur Strikes Gold in UAE with Beaded Bracelets! 🇦🇪
— Kawangware Finest â„¢ (Geoffrey Moturi) (@cbs_ke) January 26, 2025
Jamal Njambe is turning Kenyan flag bracelets into a booming business at the Sharjah Festival of African Literature, selling each piece for up to Ksh1,757! pic.twitter.com/vZAhjiHdd3
According to Sharjah 24, Njambe spends about an hour and 20 minutes designing a single item.
As a cultural festival, Njambe guarantees that his art reflects the traditions of the UAE and Kenya.
This is especially straightforward because the UAE flag has the same four colours as Kenya’s flag. This aspect has made the bracelets popular not only among Kenyan patriots but also among UAE residents seeking to display their patriotism.
His stall attracts festival-goers willing to pay the bracelets’ prices, which range from 30 AED (Ksh1,054 in current currency rates) to 50 AED (Ksh1757).
Aside from designing the bracelets, Njambe enjoys teaching bead-making to others, including children.
This is consistent with SFAL’s aim of promoting cultural exchange and strengthening relationships between Africa and the UAE’s diversified communities.
A lot of people wear Kenyan flag bracelets, each with its own unique story. Many of these stories reflect a deep sense of patriotism and love for our country. What's your Kenyan bracelet story? #WearYourPride and inspire others to do the same.#MyKenyaStory pic.twitter.com/Mriy7Xze4w
— Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (@MakeItKenya) September 3, 2024
Njambae is also a versatile artist who excels as an acrobat and juggler, appearing often at events in the UAE.
In Kenya, a simple beaded bracelet might cost Ksh50, with the price rising as more complexities are incorporated.
They are mostly created by Kenyans from the most popular tribe, the Maasai, to highlight their rich culture.
Noticed that he has a Kenyan bracelet on both wrists https://t.co/bc1vafgLZ6
— Larry Madowo (@LarryMadowo) September 14, 2024
Bracelets have been increasingly fashionable in recent years, thanks to international superstars wearing them.
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Beyonce, an American pop star, used the bracelet while filming the music video for her song My Power in 2020.
In July 2024, tennis world champion Serena Williams’ daughter wore the bracelet.
Serena Williams' Daughter Spotted Wearing A Kenyan Flagged Bracelet#TennisNews #Kenya https://t.co/ArA8cb39Jb pic.twitter.com/sumDXY3YHQ
— AfricasNow (@AfricasNow24) July 30, 2024
Several international competitors were also observed wearing the same outfit during the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Other Americans who have worn Kenyan patterns over the years include Omarion, Naomi Campbell, Lilly Singh, and Demi Lovato.
DIASPORA NEWS: Meet Kenyan Successfully Selling Bracelets In The UAE
