This archive report was first published on 11 July 2020.
On a typical day, Chebet Mutai would be busy running her high-end leather goods company, Waza Wazi, in Nairobi. But with the Covid-19 pandemic affecting the luxury industry, she has had to think on her feet to keep her business afloat.
Founded eight years ago, Waza Wazi initially built a strong online presence before opening a physical store in Nairobi. This digital foundation has proven to be a lifesaver during the pandemic, as the luxury industry faces store closures, supply problems, factory shutdowns, layoffs, non-payment of wages, and even bankruptcy.
“Of course, Covid-19 pandemic has affected our business. Initially, we were shocked, then we adjusted. The demand and supply chain has changed. For example, purchases of products made from skins and hides have stopped and focus is on masks and PPEs (personal protective equipment). But this has helped us evolve. We are now makers of masks and other PPEs, just like every other designer around the world. Who would have thought?”
— Chebet Mutai, founder of Waza Wazi fashion brand
With her business now making masks and other PPEs, Chebet is optimistic about the future. She believes that having a strong digital presence is crucial, especially during these unprecedented times.
“After a certain threshold, the concept of local market dissolves. And even after the pandemic, I’m sure businesses will appreciate the importance of having a strong digital presence,” she says. “Everyone has to adjust because this is perhaps the biggest economic disruptor since the adoption of the Internet.”
Despite the challenges, Chebet is still selling locally and has even expanded her business to the travel sector. She is also creating new collections and building local partnerships, while pushing to break into the global luxury market.
“Diversification sometimes doesn’t involve any new skillset. This is something other brands can do in their workspaces. We’re currently creating new collections,” says Chebet.
With her brand designed for the local and African market, Chebet hopes that the rest of the world will soon warm up to Waza Wazi.
“Our brand is designed for the local and African market, I hope that the rest of the world warms up to us. It will be interesting to see how the world responds to an even stronger message of what it means to be an African,” she says.
