Braiding on the move: Kiambu’s young stylists turn to mobile braiding for survival

For years, opening a salon was the goal for aspiring hairdressers, a physical shop meant stability and a steady flow of customers but rising costs have forced many to rethink their approach.

Instead of waiting for clients, some now take their craft directly to customers’ doorsteps.

This trend of mobile braiding is reshaping the beauty industry, especially for young people seeking income in a tough economy.

Jane Wanjiru, 25, worked in a small salon in Kikuyu town, earning a commission per client.

As rent increased and customer flow became unpredictable, her earnings dropped.

“I was barely making enough to sustain myself,” Jane says.

“The salon owner raised prices due to high rent, and many clients couldn’t afford regular visits.”

Jane switched to mobile braiding, offering home services booked via WhatsApp and Instagram.

A 2024 Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) report states that over 1 million young people are unemployed, with many turning to beauty services for income.

Brian Otieno, 27, had a similar experience.

After losing his job at a salon, he started braiding hair for neighbours and friends.

Recommendations grew, and soon he was receiving bookings from across town.

He now depends entirely on mobile braiding and sometimes earns more than at his previous job.

For clients, home-based hair services offer convenience.

A 2023 survey by a local beauty association found that 65 per cent of women in urban areas prefer home-based hair services due to convenience, affordability, and personalized service.

Sarah Njeri, a young mother, appreciates the flexibility.

“It’s convenient because I can get my hair braided while taking care of my baby,” she says.

“Plus, I don’t have to deal with long salon wait times.”

Without salon overhead costs, mobile braiders offer lower prices.

“I used to pay sh2,500 for braiding at a salon, but my mobile stylist charges sh2,000 for the same quality,” says Ann Wambui, a university student.

However, mobile braiding has challenges. Transport costs are high.

“Sometimes a client is far, and I spend too much on fare,” Jane says.

“If I charge too high, they may not book again. If I charge too low, I make very little profit.”

Carrying braiding hair, combs, gels, and mirrors can be exhausting.

Mobile stylists also work in different environments, sometimes with poor lighting or inadequate seating.

Time management is another issue. Unlike salons where multiple hairdressers serve clients simultaneously, mobile stylists work alone, and delays can disrupt schedules.

Safety is also a concern, especially for female stylists.

“There was a time a client made inappropriate comments, and I felt unsafe,” Jane says.

“Now, I avoid certain locations or bring a friend along.”

Social media marketing has helped many stylists gain clients.

A 2023 Kenya Business Network survey found that 80 per cent of small businesses in Kenya acquire new customers through Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp.

Jane hopes to save enough to open her salon with a different approach.

“I want a system where clients book appointments and have a comfortable, personalized experience,” she says.

Brian enjoys the flexibility of mobile braiding but believes county governments should recognize their work.

“We should be registered as independent service providers so we can access business grants and training,” he says.

Mobile braiding is helping young people adapt to economic challenges.

It provides convenience for clients and financial independence for stylists. However, issues like transport costs, safety concerns, and lack of formal recognition need addressing.

Fixed salon owners also need support, such as reduced licensing fees, to remain in business.

As the industry evolves, hairdressing remains an essential service, and those in the business deserve conditions that allow them to thrive.