Safari Martins, also known as Chief Safro, has become Kenya's most famous barber by using unconventional tools like shovels and hot charcoal irons to style his clients' hair. His unique approach has garnered him over one million followers on both Instagram and TikTok, transforming him into a viral sensation in the digital content landscape.

Clients like Ian Njenga sit in the chair, holding their breath as Martins glides a sharp shovel blade across their scalp. After just a few strokes, the hair is neatly styled. Next, the barber uses a red-hot charcoal iron to flatten any remaining stray hairs. "I only use unconventional tools", Martins said with a laugh as he worked, while an assistant recorded every angle with a phone to post on social media.

The allure of this thrilling experience and the chance to appear on a TikTok channel with millions of views makes customers willing to pay a premium. Martins charges up to 1,500 Kenyan shillings (approximately 300,000 Vietnamese dong) for a haircut. This is an exorbitant price in Nairobi, where men typically spend around 30,000 Vietnamese dong for a similar service. "His talent is on another level compared to a regular barber", noted Ian Njenga, a regular customer. "Walking out of here, I feel much more confident".

Born in Rwanda and currently living in Nairobi, Martins began hairdressing in 2018 while still a high school student. Initially, he used clippers like everyone else. Five years later, he decided to forge his own path by using shovels, hammers, and clothes irons. He stated that these tools have been sharpened and "blessed" by village elders to ensure safety. To create a unique identity, in his uploaded videos, Martins often incorporates African folk tales, attracting millions of views from around the world.

The rise of the "shovel barber" is part of the digital content boom in the East African nation. Despite earning significantly more than his peers, Martins still worries about the status of his profession. "Barbers can go viral and get huge views, but I feel we are not respected or compensated as much as content creators in gaming or education", he expressed.

Martins cuts hair using a shovel and an iron. Video: AP

Bao Nhien (According to AP, Independent)