Daniel Mutie, the Machakos Student Turning Sisal into Hair Braids for Kenyan Salons
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In the heart of Machakos County, a young student named Daniel Mutie is reshaping the beauty industry with nothing more than creativity, determination, and a plant most people overlook—sisal.
While many youths are chasing white-collar dreams or struggling to find casual jobs, Daniel decided to take a different route. He saw potential in sisal, a rough fiber plant used mainly for ropes and sacks, and turned it into an eco-friendly, affordable alternative to synthetic hair braids.
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How He Does It
Daniel processes raw sisal by stripping, cleaning, and drying the fibers before softening and dyeing them into vibrant colors. Once the strands are ready, he packages them neatly into braid bundles and sells them to salons and hairstylists in Machakos and beyond.
The result? Durable, reusable, and beautiful braid extensions that offer a refreshing twist to regular hairdos.
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Why Sisal Braids Are Catching On
*Affordable – Sisal braids cost much less than synthetic ones, giving salon clients and stylists a budget-friendly option.
*Eco-Friendly – Unlike plastic extensions, sisal is biodegradable and renewable, making it safe for the environment.
Locally Sourced – All materials are harvested from local farms, supporting both Daniel’s hustle and the community economy.
Some stylists have begun embracing this unique product, especially for clients who want a natural look or protective hairstyles. Though a few initially raised concerns about texture, Daniel is continuously improving the quality—adding oils and conditioners to soften the fibers.
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From a School Desk to a Small Business
Balancing school life and entrepreneurship isn’t easy, but Daniel is proving it’s possible. He runs his small business after classes and on weekends, using the profits to support his studies and dream of one day launching a larger natural hair brand.
What sets Daniel apart is his ability to turn a traditional resource into a modern beauty solution. He is not just selling braids—he is creating employment, promoting sustainability, and inspiring other youth to think outside the box.
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Looking Ahead
With growing interest from salons and clients across different counties, Daniel hopes to expand his production, refine his packaging, and open a workshop to train other young people in eco-friendly hair solutions.
In a country where unemployment and high living costs weigh heavily on young people, Daniel Mutie stands out as a shining example of innovation, resilience, and local ingenuity.
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He’s not just weaving braids—he’s wea
ving a future, one sisal strand at a time.
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