Today, young entrepreneurs are making huge investments in the sector, turning it into a competitive and thriving industry.
From offering fancy hairstyles like the undercut, pompadour, buzz cut, and quiff to recruiting top-tier barbersâ€"much like signing star players in footballâ€"and employing innovative strategies to attract clients, barbershop owners are redefining the art of grooming.
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.
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.
'The first time I picked up this clipper was in 2006. Things were different then, but now it's a very good, serious job. I'm enjoying it. I'm working like a star, as you can see. I'm a proud papaâ€"I have a child and a wife, and we're living well here in Kigali,' he shared during a recent visit to the barbershop in the heart of the city.
"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."
Alain, who was born in Burundi, lived briefly in Tanzania before settling back in Rwanda, where he discovered his passion for barbering.
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.
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.
'We serve everyoneâ€"music directors, government officials, and even children,' Safari shares. 'This is where everyone feels at home, whether they're getting ready for a music video or a corporate meeting.'
Safari's role involves ensuring smooth operations in what he describes as a 'huge factory for hair.'
Equipped with walkie-talkies to coordinate across the sprawling space, he explains the level of organization required to maintain their reputation.
'When we started in 2019, we had four barbers. Now, we have over 40, plus trainees who learn our unique style before joining the team.'
More than just haircuts
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're treated to a luxurious wash, ensuring every detail is perfect.
"When you leave here, you don't just look goodâ€"you feel good," Safari emphasizes, jesting about the beautiful ladies who wash and offer relaxation massages to clients.
For Safari, the service goes beyond aesthetics. 'People are stressed nowadays. Life is hard. When someone comes here, they might be spending their last five dollars. It's our job to make them feel at peace.'
From high-end equipment to premium products, the barbershop spares no expense. Even during power outages, the team continues to work seamlessly.
'We don't close until the last client leaves. Sometimes, we're here until 4 a.m., ensuring everyone gets what they need.'
Safari envisions an even brighter future for Kigali Clippers Zone and the barbershop scene in the city.
'We're 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's where we're headed.'
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/lifestyle/article/how-kigali-s-barbershops-are-redefining-the-art-of-grooming
