Kenya‘s public taxi industry is well known for its colourful vehicles. The Matatu graffiti industry, which decorates Kenya’s Matatus vibrant colors, is a multi-billion dollar shilling business. It is dominated by men, however one woman is seeking to break that barrier. Sarafina Mumbi works on Matatu graffiti and is breaking ground as the market’s only female Matatu artist.
A typical day on Kenyan roads dominantly feature the Matatu taxis, and its bright colours are hard to miss. It is a big business for those who transport people, however it has not only created a revenue stream as a taxi business, but it has also benefited many who creatively take their time to use it as a canvas for graffiti.
Mumbi wants to challenge the status quo and leave her mark on the industry by designing the artwork on Matatus, a craft that has predominantly been seen as a man’s world. By designing some of the most colourful Matatus on the road, she is living her dream; a dream she hoped could become a reality since she was 15 years-old.
“As I was going home I used to see Matatus painted and I would say’ I want to be like this.’ At first I wanted to be a driver and when I joined the Matatu industry.” Mumbi said.
However, she admits that even now it is not easy to survive in a career dominated by males.
“It’s fun and also challenging because some men even try to take advantage, some even run away with the money after you have done the Matatu, they refuse to pay you.”
Since her first job in 2014, she has gone on to paint at least 15 vehicles, earning herself amounts of $1,000 to $4,000 per vehicle. Corporates are also looking for her and her talents.
“I am aiming to open my own garage and have more women than men,” Mumbi said.
Mumbi hopes to mentor other young women and get them into the business as well.
