Kazuri Beads and Pottery Centre
📍 Nairobi, Nairobi
Kazuri Beads and Pottery Centre is a social enterprise located in Karen, Nairobi. Established in 1975, it empowers single mothers by providing employment through the creation of high-quality, handmade ceramic beads and pottery. The centre offers a unique cultural experience, allowing visitors to tour the workshop and purchase authentic Kenyan crafts.
- Location
- Nairobi, Nairobi
- Type
- Cultural Centre
- Status
- Open
- Typical Visit
- 1–2 Hours
- Booking
- Walk-ins accepted
- Main Access
- Road
Visitor Information at a Glance
- Official Name
- Kazuri Beads and Pottery Centre
- Alternative Names
- Kazuri Beads
- Attraction Type
- Cultural Centre
- County
- Nairobi
- Nearest Town
- Nairobi
- Established
- 1975
- Ownership
- Private
- Significance
- Local
- Wheelchair Access
- Fully Accessible
- Visit Duration
- 1–2 Hours
- Families
- Couples
- Solo Travellers
About Kazuri Beads and Pottery Centre
Meaning ‘small and beautiful’ in Swahili, Kazuri was started with two women and has grown into a major employer of disadvantaged women in the community. The centre emphasizes traditional craftsmanship and sustainable social empowerment.
Why Visit Kazuri Beads and Pottery Centre
A meaningful stop that combines high-quality souvenir shopping with a direct, positive social impact on the local community of artisans.
Guided workshop tours, artisan bead-making demonstrations, and a wide array of handmade ceramics.
History and Significance
History
Founded to provide sustainable employment to disadvantaged single mothers in Kenya.
Significance
A landmark of social enterprise and traditional craft preservation in Nairobi.
Things to Do
Workshop tours are free.
Wildlife and Natural Environment
- Urban
- Mixed
Promotes economic sustainability for local women.
Opening Hours and Booking
| Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday | 8:30 am–5:30 pm |
|---|---|
| Saturday, Sunday | 9:00 am–5:00 pm |
- Advance Booking
- Not indicated as required
- Walk-ins
- Accepted
How to Get There
- Main Access
- Road
- Road Surface
- Paved
- Road Condition
- Excellent
- 4WD Required
- Not confirmed
- Public Transport
- Available
- Parking
- Available
- Nearest Air Access
- Wilson Airport
- Distance from Nairobi
- 15 km
Well-situated in the Karen residential/commercial area.
Facilities and Visitor Services
- Toilets
- Guides
- Fuel Nearby
- Parking
- Payments: Cash, M-Pesa, Card
Showroom, workshop, and coffee corner.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Access
- Fully Accessible
The showroom and main workshop areas are fully accessible.
- Families
- Couples
- Solo Travellers
Best Time to Visit
- Best Months
- January, February, June, July, August, September
Rules and Safety
- General Safety Level
- Very Low Risk
Visitor Rules
Respect the artisans at work.
Safety Information
Safe area of Karen.
Photography and Drone Policy
Photography permitted.