This archive report was first published on 25 September 2019.
Beatrice Mwihaki's life took a dramatic turn on Madaraka Day in 2018 when her brother died in an accident. The incident left her with a deep sense of regret for missing out on the last moments with him.
Her brother had left the house to take a quick ride around the neighborhood before returning for a family photo. Beatrice had stepped away to change into a nicer outfit, leaving her brother to his fate. The photo was never taken.
Months after her brother's death, Beatrice realized that many women must miss out on precious moments with their babies due to the need to feed or change them in private. This realization sparked the idea for Nursing Mamas, a fashion line that sells stylish clothes for nursing mothers.
Beatrice approached a manufacturer in July 2018, and they designed outfits with accessibility zips, buttons, layers, and flaps. The first products were exclusively jumpers, retailing at Sh3,500. However, they later added tops with a lighter fabric for warmer weather, retailing at Sh1,500.
After the October exhibition, sales plummeted in November and December. Beatrice realized that they didn't have enough variety, missing out on repeat customers. They adjusted their size ratios and increased the designs, which led to a significant increase in sales.
In the year to date, Nursing Mamas has turned over Sh3 million. Beatrice credits her family, including her husband, siblings, and parents, for their support. Her father is particularly enthusiastic, often approaching women with babies to tell them about Nursing Mamas.
Nursing Mamas received a significant boost when it applied and was accepted to pitch on KCB Lions' Den, a TV show where entrepreneurs get a chance to sell their idea to business investors. The show provided an investment of Sh2 million for 30 per cent equity.
Nursing Mamas plans to expand to include not just stylish, convenient breastfeeding clothes but also maternity wear. The brand aims to care for both mother and baby, walking with them from pregnancy to weaning.
