NAROBI -
THE YAYA MARKETS
The Faces Of The Yaya Markets
From a wonderful selection of arts and crafts, wooden carvings, beadwork and delicious food, you can’t go wrong at the Nairobi Maasai Markets aka Yaya. Within this series I wanted to capture the faces of the grafters and behind the scenes of who and how the markets are run.
BEHIND THE FLAVOURS
Amid rising smoke and the crackle of open flames, they chop, stir, and grill with practiced hands, their faces glistening with heat and focus.
The air is thick with the rich aroma of slow-cooked spices, blending into the rhythmic clatter of knives against chopping boards. Though unseen by most, these cooks are the heart of the market, turning simple ingredients into dishes that bring people together—one sizzling pan at a time.
Behind the bustling stalls of Nairobi’s Yaya Market, where the scent of sizzling nyama choma and spiced stews fills the air, cooks work tirelessly in the sweltering back kitchens.
THE COLOUR & ENERGY OF THE YAYA FOOD MARKET
Step into the heart of Yaya Market, and you're instantly enveloped in a whirlwind of colour, flavour, and life.
Stalls overflow with pyramids of ripe mangoes, fiery red chilies, and fragrant bundles of fresh herbs, their vibrant hues dancing under the golden Nairobi sun.
Vendors call out with warm smiles, their voices blending into a symphony of bartering and laughter. Skewers of sizzling meats perfume the air, mingling with the sweet scent of roasted maize and freshly brewed chai.
Every corner bursts with energy—hands exchanging goods, eyes scanning for the best pick, and the rhythm of daily life unfolding in a beautiful, chaotic harmony
The Rooftop Market: A Treasure Trove of Art & Culture
Above the lively hum of Yaya Market, the rooftop transforms into a haven of creativity and craftsmanship.
Here, under the open sky, artisans display their handiwork—intricately beaded jewellery shimmering in the sunlight, hand-carved wooden sculptures telling stories of Kenya’s rich heritage, and vibrant textiles woven with patterns as bold as the city itself.
The air is filled with the quiet murmur of artists sharing their craft, fingers threading beads with delicate precision, while traveler’s and locals alike browse for unique keepsakes.
Each stall holds a piece of Kenya’s soul—crafted, painted, and sculpted with passion, waiting to find a new home beyond the market’s walls.
