Keeping the Culture at The Musical Maasai Market

On a vibrant Thursday morning, as the sun’s orange streaks splash across the sky, various vans weave their way to The Junction Mall, long before Nairobi’s infamous traffic clogs the streets. Delicate, beautifully carved handmade crafts, paintings, wood carvings, and ornaments begin arriving at The Junction Mall’s Musical Maasai Market, each piece a testament to intricate craftsmanship.

Right on cue, the vendors carefully move their goods to their stalls. At Stall 123 stands David Kaviti, a master wood carver with sinewy hands marked by years of dedicated craftsmanship. His distant, contemplative look suggests a man deeply connected to the stories he brings to life through wood. His stall is a mosaic of wooden creations that narrate the rich tapestry of African culture. David is one of over 200 vendors at the Musical Maasai Market, displaying his art with a keen eye for detail and history.

Every wood carving in David’s stall is a window into the intriguing history of African culture. Take, for instance, the African Comb, also known as the Ashanti Fertility Doll Comb (Akua’ba). Originating from the Ashanti, a major ethnic group in Ghana, this black wooden carving embodies a woman’s likeness. Her neck is adorned with tribal beaded jewellery winding gracefully around it. The carving depicts a slim upper body and an exaggerated lower body extending into the comb’s wooden bristles.

Once revered for its supposed powers over infertility and increasing the likelihood of having beautiful female children, the doll now serves as a popular decoration piece. It stands as a powerful symbol of cultural ideals and beliefs, echoing the rich traditions of the Ashanti people.

David’s stall offers a plethora of other fascinating wood carvings. Marvel at the wooden tribal masks, once believed to keep mosquitoes at bay. Ponder over the Kamba Thinking Men wood carvings, and discover the African Passport Masks, used historically as forms of tribal identification.

As the market comes alive with the rhythm of traditional music, the vibrant colors and rich scents create a tapestry of culture and tradition. The Musical Maasai Market is not just a place to shop; it’s a journey through the heart of African heritage, open every Thursday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Come and immerse yourself in the stories, the history, and the artistry that define our continent.

At The Junction Mall, we believe every visit should be special because The Junction is All About You. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating this wonderful month together.

Much Love

The Junction Mall