As much as Kenya is renowned in the world its beautiful tourist destinations, the country has a lot more to offer than just exquisite scenery and weather. But of course, if you are going to be travelling and scouring Kenya for its hidden treasures, then the beautiful scenery and weather can make your quest more enjoyable.
Kenyans in general are very friendly. Perhaps as friendly as
they are creative. For a country that has over 40 different ethnic groups, it
is no surprise that it is a melting pot of ingenious originality. The 40 plus
different ethnic communities are complemented by a host of foreign visitors and
permanent residents, who only add to the vibrant disparity in style, taste and
creativity. Kenyans pierce the mundane to create beautiful things and it is
incredible to see their creativity being shared with the world.
That being said, here are 13 beautiful things you didn’t
know were made in Kenya:
1. Kenyan Artefacts
We do not have the space to list everything in this
category, but anyone wandering through Kenya’s Masaai markets, be it a local or
a foreign tourist, cannot help but notice the many different kinds of artefacts
on display. These wood, glass and stone carvings are of very many different
things found around and within the country. Many are of the wildlife the
country has to offer, others are of the different people, buildings, cities and
vegetation. These artefacts are as original as they are creatively done.
2. Kikoy Fashion
Kikoy is a fashion line that has made an enormous name for
itself the world over. Although many people are familiar with the beautiful
clothing line, not many know that it is an original Kenyan production. The
Kikoy company only uses cotton from within East Africa and the product
production, observes international eco-certified standards. Based in Kenya, the
company produces shirts, pants, curtains, bed sheets and a host of other items
using the ethnically endearing Kikoy style.
3. Kitengela Glass Artefacts
Kitengela Glass is one of the world leading glass artefacts
production companies. The name itself is a dead giveaway for those familiar
with Kenya. Kitengela is a place in Kajiado County. The glass artefacts are,
without a doubt, of world class standards. From flower vases, kitchen utensils,
lamp shades, wall art and almost anything you can think up, the Kitengala Glass
company can make it, using glass.
4. Flamingo Wall Tiles
You may have noticed them on the bathroom walls of the
different resorts in the country. Some of the best hotels and houses use these
beautifully designed wall tiles that come in very many different colours and
designs. These Flamingo wall tiles are a production of Kenya’s very own,
Flamingo Tiles. A company that is based and does all its production in the
country. The company boasts an extensive array of coordinating trim tiles,
mosaics & décor pieces.
5. Kwani?
When exploring what a country has to offer, you can never
overlook its literary prowess. Kenya has produced some of the worlds finest
writers. The international community is familiar with Ngugi Wathiong’o, but
Kwani?, a Kenyan-based literary network and publisher has launched the careers
of many local writers. Some of whom have gone on to win the coveted Caine Prize
for African writing. The publishing house publishes short stories, novels and
local literature.
6. Seiwa Garden Outdoor Furniture
Seiwa’s is a garden furniture production company that has
been serving the country for some years now. You may have noticed that many
resorts, hotels and restaurants have beautiful garden furniture that are very
durable and can withstand the harsh ‘outside weather’. Most of these garden
furniture including, shades, tables and chairs are manufactured by Seiwa along
Mombasa Road.
7. Finlays, Ketepa and Kenya Gold Tea
When you take a drive into the heart of the country, you
will find a little known town called Kericho. Kericho is the home of Kenyan
tea. The international community may be familiar with Kenya Gold Tea and even
some blended brands from Finlays. Ketepa is one of the leading tea production
companies in the country and combined, the three companies produce some of the
best brands of tea in the world.
8. Housemark Artwork
Housemark produces some of the most original designs when it comes to wall art.
The best part about this is that, not only is it 100% Kenyan, the different
pieces they produce are completely functional as opposed to just ornamental.
They base their designs on things like wall clocks, candle holders and key
racks among many others.
9. Bamboo Furniture
Okay, so maybe this is not indeginous to Kenya only, but the
country is without a doubt, one of the leading producers of Bamboo furniture in
the region. The best part is that, these pieces are made from local bamboo
material by local artists at the Bamboo Center. You can get tables, shelves,
chairs, seats and even shoe racks. Whatever design you fancy, you can have it
made using Bamboo locally.
10. Ngong Road Furniture
In Nairobi, Kenya, there is a long stretch of road called
‘Ngong Rd’. Along Ngong Rd, you will find some of the best furniture
productions in the world. The World!!! These local wood and reed productions
are on display on the side of the road and are good enough to adorn even the
most princely of abodes.
11. Tusker, Kenya’s Premium Beer
Produced by Kenya’s very own EABL, Tusker is a premium lager
to rival any international beers on the market. It is so good, that Tusker has
become synonymous with ‘good times’ in the country and indeed, some
international communities. This beautiful brew is produced locally from local
ingredients found within the country. It is Kenya’s number one premium beer.
12. Kenyan Leather Products
From shoes to belts and even bags, Kenya has some of the
best leather products in the region. Although, international conglomerates like
Bata have a strong grip on this market niche, those looking to go authentic can
find many beautiful leather products at the daily Masaai markets that are
located in different parts of Nairobi. These leather products tend to be
superior by far when it comes to durability and original design.
13. Lamu Wood Furniture
Although we have mentioned furniture before, we would be doing you a disservice if we do not mention Lamu Wood Furniture. These are some of the most authentic Swahili and Arabic wood furniture designs you will ever come across. They are stunningly beautiful, originally designed and made in Kenya. These furniture pieces are absolutely breathtaking! If you want to adorn your house with coastal decor, then Lamu Wood Furniture is what you want.
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