Inside The Largest Second-Hand Clothes Market in East Africa - The Gikomba Experience
Welcome to Gikomba Market! In this video, I take you on a vibrant journey through one of Nairobi's busiest and most famous open-air markets. From navigating the packed stalls of second-hand clothes (mitumba) to bargaining with skilled vendors, I’ll show you what it’s really like to experience this bustling hub of commerce firsthand.
🚐 Getting There: Matatu is my go-to for transportation—affordable, convenient, and it brings me right to the heart of the action without worrying about parking.
💸 Bargaining and Blending In: Locals suggest dressing down to avoid high prices, but my experience was a bit different, especially when recognized with Achicho Software, a well-known artist here. Let’s just say fame can come with its own price!
👕 Thrifting Tips: Gikomba offers an open-air fitting room experience where shoppers try clothes right in the middle of the market! If you’re looking for great deals and don’t mind a bit of public fitting, this is the place to be.
🧵 Tailoring and Craftsmanship: After finding what I needed, I took a few pieces to a skilled tailor to adjust on the spot. Watching him work was amazing—quick and precise, with a queue of people waiting for his expert touch.
🔥 Behind the Scenes Hustle: One of the coolest parts? The traditional charcoal ironing! It’s a real skill—making clothes look freshly pressed without burning them. These hardworking individuals iron up to a thousand items daily, each carefully prepped to be resold.
By the end, I left with a deep appreciation for the skill and dedication that keeps Gikomba Market thriving. It’s more than just a market; it’s a community with stories, resilience, and a heart that pulses with Nairobi’s spirit. If you enjoy urban explorations, be sure to like, subscribe, and share your own Gikomba experiences below!
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