MADE IN KENYA: The African print swimwear turning heads worldwide

This is the idea behind Ohana Swimwear, a venture founded by Neema Nkatha to make African-inspired swimwear as a way of celebrating African culture in the modern era. 

In 2018, Nkatha was visiting Europe when she realised that she had everything African, except swimwear. Keen on exporting African culture to Europe, the idea of making African-inspired swimwear led to the birth of Ohana Swimwear. 

"I just wanted to be able to represent our culture abroad. So Ohana Swimwear is a brand that champions African swimming. We do a fusion of not only the African culture but also incorporate that into modern and stylish contemporary designs. We design and produce African-inspired swimwear which is our flagship product. We do all-inclusive swimwear ranging from men swimwear, ladies, kids, plus size and modest swimwear," Nkatha says.

She adds that the biggest consideration in Ohana Swimwear is comfort and the quality of the fabric used. She adds the swimwear dries quickly after swimming. 

Nkatha says infusing African culture with modernity in her products has been a game changer for Ohana Swimwear, as more and more water enthusiasts now want to look stylish in the pool and on the beaches.

"Being the first African print swimwear not only in Kenya but East Africa as well, we’ve gotten positive feedback, we’ve been able to build a community around our brand of people who are inspired and love the cultural aspect of it," she says.

Leveraging social media, Ohana Swimwear has even attracted the attention of the 'Design Museum' in London where it will be displayed in the ongoing exhibition celebrating the world’s enduring love of the water over the last 100 years.

Nkatha believes that with Ohana Swimwear, more people will be encouraged to embrace swimming.

"I see us being a global brand, and the leading brand championing for African swimming. We are going to expand into more products and different products, and I’m hoping we can bring up projects that can support swimming culture not only in Kenya but also Africa as a whole," she concludes.