Why Brass Is the New Gold in Kenya’s Creative Scene

Walk through Nairobi’s Maasai Market or scroll through your favourite Kenyan fashion Instagram page, and one thing is clear, brass is everywhere.

From chunky bangles and spiral earrings to delicately engraved rings, this golden-hued metal has become a favourite for both local artisans and style lovers.

Affordable, versatile, and unapologetically bold, brass is fast becoming the signature material in Kenya’s booming artisan and jewellery scene.

“Brass is like the people, it’s strong, adaptable, and beautiful in an imperfect way,” says Peter Mwaura, a 35-year-old artisan who has worked with the metal for over a decade in Nairobi’s Kariokor Market.

“It allows us to express African identity in a modern way without costing a fortune.”

Unlike gold or silver, brass is affordable and readily available, making it accessible for young creatives and buyers alike.

For artisans, it's a dream to work with, soft enough to mold by hand, yet durable enough to shape into detailed designs.

The appeal goes beyond price and practicality. For many, brass carries a powerful aesthetic rooted in heritage. Its warm, golden glow pairs perfectly with African prints, beads, and natural textures. This has made it a top choice for Afrocentric designers and fashion-forward youth looking to blend tradition with contemporary flair.

“I wear brass because it feels proudly African,” says Sheila Atieno, a 27-year-old creative based in Kisumu.

“It’s not just about beauty. It’s about wearing something that feels connected to our roots but still speaks to the now.”

In places like Lamu and Mombasa, brass is also steeped in Swahili and coastal culture, where it has long been used in architectural finishes, home décor, and ceremonial accessories.

Today's artisans are tapping into that history, reimagining the metal for modern tastes while keeping the spirit of the craft alive.

Social media has further fueled the trend, with online shops and pop-ups showcasing Kenyan-made brass pieces to a global audience.

Local entrepreneurs are increasingly exporting handcrafted brass jewelry, positioning it as a proudly Kenyan brand of style.

“We’re not just making ornaments,we’re telling stories,” Mwaura adds.

“Every cut, every engraving, carries a piece of our identity.”

From matatus in Nairobi to boardrooms in Westlands, brass is no longer just a market trinket, it’s a symbol of creative resilience, cultural pride, and everyday elegance.