UK-based Kenyan designer and radio presenter, Anthony Kimani, is making waves globally with his unique ventures that proudly highlight his Kenyan heritage. As the founder of African Warrior Wear, MURATA (a Kenyan-inspired beer), and Kwetu Coffee, Anthony is using his entrepreneurial spirit to introduce Kenyan culture to international markets.
Anthony’s journey began with African Warrior Wear, a fashion brand launched during the COVID-19 lockdown after his move to the UK from Dubai. “I wanted to create something African specifically Kenyan that didn’t scream Kenyan but was subtle enough to prompt a conversation,” he explained. The brand’s ethos is inspired by the Maasai warriors of East Africa, symbolizing strength, resilience, and the warrior spirit, offering stylish, versatile clothing that blends modern aesthetics with traditional influences.
The success of Warrior Wear, even with zero capital at its inception, propelled Anthony to explore other opportunities. He founded MURATA, a Kenyan beer inspired by Muratina, a traditional Kikuyu drink. “MURATA means ‘friend’ in Kikuyu, and we’re working hard to bring it to UK shelves,” Anthony shared. His mission is to offer a taste of Kenyan culture to the wider audience and make it a staple in international markets.
In addition, Anthony is the founder of Kwetu Coffee, a community-driven initiative in Glasgow focused on providing employment opportunities through barista training while supporting Kenyan coffee farmers. The initiative aims to open stores and secure placements in UK supermarkets, promoting ethically sourced Kenyan coffee.
Despite starting from humble beginnings, Anthony’s brand has achieved significant milestones. “Warrior Wear reached a net worth of 1 million, and we also launched the African Warrior Cup in Mathare to support youth through sports,” he recalled. Anthony’s vision extends to 2025, where he plans to partner with Kenyan brands to retail their products in Europe, advocating for sustainable and ethical practices in the fashion industry.
However, entrepreneurship comes with its challenges. Anthony emphasized that success isn’t built on glamour but on hard work, sacrifice, and constant learning. He encourages aspiring designers to embrace creativity and resilience, despite the immense pressures of the industry. “We need to change the narrative that international brands benefit while Africa’s artisans remain underpaid,” he said, stressing the importance of fair trade.
Anthony, who holds a degree in Journalism and is pursuing a Master’s in Immigration Law, maintains a structured schedule to balance his various ventures. His focus on empowering Kenyan communities through his businesses exemplifies his commitment to making a lasting global impact.
