Kenyan Fashion Pioneer Wandia Gichuru Expands Vivo Brand to U.S. Market

From Development Advisor to Fashion Industry Leader

Wandia Gichuru, recently honored in Forbes’ 50 Over 50: Global 2025 list, has transformed Kenya’s fashion landscape through her brand, Vivo. After departing from a distinguished international development career at age 40, she co-founded what would become East Africa’s leading women’s apparel company.

Building an African Fashion Empire

Growth and Impact

  • 29 stores across East Africa
  • 450 employees, with 70% women representation
  • Manufacturing facility in Kenya
  • Expansion into Rwanda and Uganda
  • Recent establishment in Atlanta, Georgia

Brand Portfolio

  • Vivo Woman
  • Safari
  • Zoya
  • ShopZetu (multi-brand e-commerce platform)

International Expansion and Recognition

The May 2024 launch of Vivo‘s Atlanta store marked a significant milestone in African fashion’s global reach. Kenyan President William Ruto attended the opening, endorsing Vivo as a premier example of Kenyan entrepreneurship and craftsmanship.

Leadership and Vision

Gichuru’s vision extends beyond retail success: “I want us to dress ourselves number one and dress the rest of the world,” she stated to CNN. Her goal is positioning Africa as a key sourcing destination for global fashion.

Professional Background

Career Trajectory

  • 15+ years in international development
  • Worked with UK government, UN, and World Bank
  • Certified life coach and business mentor
  • Co-founder of multiple successful fashion ventures

Educational Foundation

  • MBA from University of Cape Town
  • BA in Economics from Western University
  • Alumna of Loreto Convent Msongari

Cultural Impact and Future Goals

Born in Montreal to a Canadian mother and Kenyan father, Gichuru has dedicated her career to developing Kenya’s fashion industry while creating employment opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship across Africa.

Her success demonstrates how African fashion can compete globally while maintaining local authenticity and creating significant social impact through employment and economic growth.