If you’re visiting Nairobi and looking for a traditional piece of clothing to bring back home, you should definitely consider purchasing a kanga.
A kanga is a colorful machine-printed piece of cloth that is commonly identified with the Swahili culture since the early 1880’s.
It can be worn in different ways, such as a skirt, dress, or even a headscarf.
Kangas are popular as gifts or souvenirs as they are valued by millions of people across the globe.
If you’re wondering where to buy kangas in Nairobi, there are several options to choose from.
Here are some of the best places to buy kangas in Nairobi:
1. Maasai Market
The Maasai Market is a popular outdoor market that takes place in different locations throughout Nairobi, including:
| Location | Day of the Week |
| Kijabe Street (opposite the Norfolk Hotel) | Tuesday |
| Capital Centre, Mombasa Road | Wednesday |
| Nakumatt Junction Shopping Mall, Ngong Road | Thursday |
| Village Market, Gigiri | Friday |
| The High Court parking lot, CBD | Saturday |
| Yaya Centre, Hurlingham | Sunday |
It is a great place to buy kangas as well as other traditional African crafts, such as jewelry, wood carvings, and paintings.
You can find a wide variety of kangas here, and you can negotiate the price with the vendors.
Just be prepared to haggle a bit to get the best deal.
2. City Market
City Market is one of the oldest markets in the city and has been around since the early 1900s.
Here, you can find a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs.
There are several vendors selling kangas at City Market, and you can find some unique designs that you may not find elsewhere.
However, the prices may be slightly higher than at other markets, so be prepared to negotiate.
3. Biashara Street
Biashara Street is a busy shopping street in Nairobi’s CBD.
It is lined with shops selling all kinds of goods, from electronics to clothing. Here, you can find several shops that sell kangas.
The prices may be slightly higher than at the Maasai Market or City Market, but you can find some unique designs that may be worth the extra cost.
Just be sure to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.
4. Eastleigh
Eastleigh is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood in Nairobi known for its vibrant markets and shops selling all kinds of goods, including clothing and textiles.
Here, you can find several shops and stalls selling kangas, and you can find some unique designs that you may not find elsewhere.
The prices may be slightly higher than at other markets, but you can negotiate with the vendors to get the best deal.
Eastleigh is also a great place to find other traditional East African textiles, such as kikoys and kitenges
5. Toi Market
Toi Market is a popular secondhand market located in the Kibera neighborhood of Nairobi.
It is a great place to find bargains on all kinds of goods, including clothing, shoes, and accessories.
You can find several vendors selling kangas at Toi Market, and the prices are generally lower than at other markets.
However, be prepared to sift through piles of clothes to find what you’re looking for.
6. Online Retailers
If you prefer to shop from the comfort of your own home, there are several online retailers that sell kangas.
Some popular options:
You can browse through a wide variety of designs and prices, and the items will be delivered straight to your door.
However, be sure to check the return policy before making a purchase, as you may not be able to return the item if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
