On Wednesday, August 12, a video of a custom-made matatu toy car caused a stir across social media platforms, with Kenyans in awe of the level of detail that went into it.
From the miniature screen that was actually playing a popular gengetone song, to the colourful interior, complete with mini-seats.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, the talented artist behind the model car, Maurice Njuguna alias JJ, narrated the story behind the trendy toy.
"I actually started making model cars when I was just 6 years old. However, working as a tout on various routes within Nairobi inspired me to kickstart the matatu toys production line," he explained.
He pours his love for Kenya's unique matatu culture into his work, having hang his tout uniform to fully focus on his toy business.
The gifted artist set aside a section of his home in Nairobi's Umoja estate, to serve as his workshop.
His matatu models are fitted with everything found in real matatus including tiny-sized chrome wheels, speakers and colourful graffiti.
Recycled fibre plastic is his main raw material. This ensures that his final products are weather-proof and long lasting.
To date, his most expensive was a Ksh20,000 model matatu, with the one in the video priced at Ksh10,000.
However, after studying his intended market, he realized the need to also create cheaper versions of the same, with less detail.
A quick look at Kenya's toy industry shows just how pricey some of the items can get, with miniature cars from abroad going for as much as Ksh25,000.
Kenyans took to social media to encourage the budding artist-turned-entrepreneur to keep creating, promising to share his videos across various online platforms to help boost his sales.
JJ is currently working on an online platform where Kenyans can view his catalogue and place orders.
He enthusiastically revealed that his next project is a mini-sized bus emblazoned with Gor Mahia Football Club graffitti.
"Hii itakuwa moto (this one will be special)," he stated.
Notably, his video went viral on a day set aside to mark International Youth Day 2020.
President Uhuru Kenyatta, earlier on in the day, encouraged the youth to channel their creative energies towards creating something for themselves.
It's safe to say that JJ is well ahead of the curve, with the former tout now reaping the fruits of his unique labour.
Watch JJ's remarkable creation below:
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