{"id":52538,"date":"2025-01-08T12:54:30","date_gmt":"2025-01-08T12:54:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/how-kigali-s-barbershops-are-redefining-the-art-of-grooming\/"},"modified":"2025-01-10T07:11:56","modified_gmt":"2025-01-10T07:11:56","slug":"how-kigali-s-barbershops-are-redefining-the-art-of-grooming","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/how-kigali-s-barbershops-are-redefining-the-art-of-grooming\/","title":{"rendered":"How Kigali’s barbershops are redefining the art of grooming (VIDEO)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Today, young entrepreneurs are making huge investments in the sector, turning it into a competitive and thriving industry. <\/p>\n

From offering fancy hairstyles like the undercut, pompadour, buzz cut, and quiff to recruiting top-tier barbers\u2014much like signing star players in football\u2014and employing innovative strategies to attract clients, barbershop owners are redefining the art of grooming.<\/p>\n

\"A<\/figure>\n

Marsha Alain, a barber at the popular Kigali Clippers Zone barbershop, has been in the industry for 18 years and has witnessed a dramatic shift in his clientele. Once he primarily served clients seeking simple trims, but his chair is now filled with young professionals, students, and celebrities, all eager to experiment with the latest styles.<\/p>\n

Over the same period, he has also seen a major change in the perception of his work, which has become his family’s main source of livelihood. Additionally, young women are increasingly joining the profession, offering shaving services as well.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/figure>\n

\u201cThe first time I picked up this clipper was in 2006. Things were different then, but now it\u2019s a very good, serious job. I\u2019m enjoying it. I\u2019m working like a star, as you can see. I\u2019m a proud papa\u2014I have a child and a wife, and we\u2019re living well here in Kigali,\u201d he shared during a recent visit to the barbershop in the heart of the city.<\/p>\n

“I started shaving when it cost 50 Rwandan francs. Now, the price is 10,000 Rwandan francs, and that’s before any tip or extra charges.”<\/p>\n

Alain, who was born in Burundi, lived briefly in Tanzania before settling back in Rwanda, where he discovered his passion for barbering.<\/p>\n

He now serves a diverse clientele, ranging from top Rwandan celebrities like musician Mugisha Benjamin, also known as The Ben, to influential figures in Rwanda’s corporate sector and beyond.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n

Innocent Safari, the assistant manager at Kigali Clippers Zone, believes that the innovative strategies blending luxury with top-tier customer service have set the barbershop apart, despite the intense competition in the city.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe serve everyone\u2014music directors, government officials, and even children,\u201d Safari shares. \u201cThis is where everyone feels at home, whether they\u2019re getting ready for a music video or a corporate meeting.\u201d<\/p>\n

Safari\u2019s role involves ensuring smooth operations in what he describes as a \u201chuge factory for hair.\u201d <\/p>\n

Equipped with walkie-talkies to coordinate across the sprawling space, he explains the level of organization required to maintain their reputation. <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen we started in 2019, we had four barbers. Now, we have over 40, plus trainees who learn our unique style before joining the team.\u201d<\/p>\n

{{More than just haircuts
\n}}<\/p>\n

The barbershop offers a waiting area with a mini-bar and snacks, creating an atmosphere of comfort and relaxation. Clients receive personalized consultations to ensure they get exactly what they want. After a haircut, they\u2019re treated to a luxurious wash, ensuring every detail is perfect.<\/p>\n

“When you leave here, you don\u2019t just look good\u2014you feel good,” Safari emphasizes, jesting about the beautiful ladies who wash and offer relaxation massages to clients.<\/p>\n

For Safari, the service goes beyond aesthetics. \u201cPeople are stressed nowadays. Life is hard. When someone comes here, they might be spending their last five dollars. It\u2019s our job to make them feel at peace.\u201d<\/p>\n

From high-end equipment to premium products, the barbershop spares no expense. Even during power outages, the team continues to work seamlessly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t close until the last client leaves. Sometimes, we\u2019re here until 4 a.m., ensuring everyone gets what they need.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"From<\/figure>\n

Safari envisions an even brighter future for Kigali Clippers Zone and the barbershop scene in the city.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re planning to make this a one-stop destination. Imagine a place where you can get a haircut, grab a coffee, and even have your kids entertained in a playground while you relax. That\u2019s where we\u2019re headed.\u201d<\/p>\n