By Collins Ochieng, DevReporter, Nairobi County
Key Highlight
- Hairdressing skills for Kenyan youth
- Licensing for hairdressing business
- Hairdressing as a contributor to Kenya’s Economy
- Hairdressing as a way of earning a living
In every Kenyan county, there are different business activities, from the sale of electronic devices, household items and vegetables, to transport services. Hairdressing is also a major activity in in these counties. All these economic activities enable Kenyans, in general, to earn their living.
Hairdressers play a crucial role in ensuring that their clients get the looks they desire after a visit to their salons. These may vary, from latest fashion trends to products used on the hair. In the process of improving the clients’ looks, hairdressers also create employment for themselves and others.
Considering Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 8, hairdressing business presents a good opportunity for helping individuals to improve their own economic growth and, in the process, that of the overall country.
In Utawala, Nairobi County, a few kilometres from Nairobi’s Central Business District, there are a good number of Hairdressing businesses. To operate these businesses, one must acquire a business permit from the Nairobi County Office, as per regulations set by the National Government of Kenya.
Success stories
Dickson Mutiso, who works in this ever-growing hairdressing business, shares insights into what inspired him to start the business. He also shares insights into what it takes to start the business, and in the process, providing employment opportunities to others.
“What made me interested in this industry? I just wanted to make people look smart through experiencing our hair-shaving process. It is also a passion for me, not forgetting that the job is well paying,” he shares.
A professional barber and hairdresser, Mutiso also had this to say on the current trend where more male hairdressers seem to be joining the business
“I think one of reasons why men are venturing into hairdressing business is because in the current economic situation in the country, one cannot aim to choose only the type of job that you want.”
On whether the youth who are unemployed should learn hairdressing skills, Mutiso gives his insight.
“According to me, it is very important for the youth to introduce themselves in these skills because they will help them in their growth, keep them busy and give them the confidence to apply for vacancies that become available. Working in this business also helps in paying bills and earning money to grow the business.”
Business Permits for Hairdressing Business
Rachael Waigwe Njambi has a five-year experience operating a hairdressing business. She operated in Utawala as well. She shares insights into what it takes to acquire a licence for the business.
“As for the licensing, my business is not that big so I was told to go for the single business permit from the Nairobi County Government. This cost me Kshs.5,200, from there I was able to start the business,” Rachael shared.
Hairdressers need good communication kills to understand clients’ preferences and also suggest styles that are most suitable for them. Most hairdressers complete formal training through cosmetology schools.
From these submissions by the hairdressers, it is clear that hairdressing business is good for the economy, as it supports hairdressers in earning their living while engaging in the business of making clients look good.
Related Article
https://www.iosrjournals.org/iosr-jbm/papers/Vol17-issue3/Version-1/A17310115.pdf
https://biasharanow.com/resource-center/meeting-key-obligations/how-to-apply-for-a-single-business-permit-in-nairobi-city-county#:~:text=Upon%20satisfaction%20with%20the%20given,is%20required%20by%20the%20law.
