We’re proud to share that Shop Nanjala and our founder, Teresa Nanjala Lubano, were featured on Lionesses of Africa. The feature highlights a challenge many African artisans face—access to markets and exposure—and how Shop Nanjala is working to provide solutions through design, collaboration, and e-commerce.
What We Do
At Shop Nanjala, we are an online store offering one-stop solutions in design, customised gift items, and eye-catching potted plants. All our products are locally sourced and made in Kenya.
Inspiration Behind Shop Nanjala
Launched online on December 1, 2015, Shop Nanjala was born from a recognition that many artisans and craftsmen in Kenya lack the exposure and opportunities they deserve. Our e-commerce platform gives them a professional, profitable way to connect with the market.
By supporting our store, customers directly support Kenyan artisans—helping them refine their talents and grow sustainable livelihoods.
Why Choose Shop Nanjala
We carefully curate products using criteria such as:
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Contemporary and innovative design
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Eco-friendly and sustainable concepts
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Locally made craftsmanship
This ensures our customers get quality products at fair prices, while artisans gain the recognition and compensation they deserve.
Our vision is simple: economic empowerment through design. We’re proud to run a double bottom line business—a profitable venture that uplifts Kenya’s creative industry.
Entrepreneurial Journey
Teresa has spent over a decade as an art director in top Nairobi agencies while nurturing her entrepreneurial venture. Shop Nanjala was born from a personal desire to give back and build a legacy of inspiration.
Sub-brand Nanjala Blooms emerged from her love for nature and succulents, growing from a personal collection into a business that now serves a wide community of plant lovers.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
We envision Shop Nanjala growing into a platform like Etsy.com. or Made.com – a hub where Kenyan and African creatives can sell directly to customers who value locally made, globally competitive design.
Our long-term goal is to empower designers to retain full recognition and fair compensation for their intellectual property—without losing value to middlemen.
What Drives Us
The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing design valued as a profession in Africa and knowing that every purchase contributes to bettering someone’s life.
Advice to Women Entrepreneurs
“It’s not ready until it ships!”
“Fortune favours the bold.”
Teresa believes that with passion, drive, and focus, women can achieve remarkable success. As natural nurturers, women have the resilience to turn ideas into reality.
Why LoA loves it….
“One of the challenges for any artisan on the continent is getting their products recognised and into the hands of potential buyers. Teresa Lubano is one entrepreneur looking to put Kenya’s artisans on the map through ShopNanjala.com.”
— Melanie Hawken, Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Lionesses of Africa