There’s an old African adage that says, “Until the lion learns to speak, the tales of hunting will be weak”. Using this mantra as inspiration, Jamhuri Wear was designed to help communicate the untold stories of Africa to the rest of the world through the popular market of street wear and to help shape a more positive reality for the continent.

The word “Jamhuri” translates from Swahili as “Republic” or “Free State.” It makes reference to the 53 vast nations of the company’s principal focus and invites the Jamhuri Wear-clad to play an ambassador-like role in the form of a fashionista state.

Started as a graphic t-shirt line in 2003 in New York City, the brand has since grown to include custom outerwear pieces such as hooded sweatshirts and crewnecks. Our diverse designs appeal to a trans-cultural, forward-thinking market of consumers. Living and working in a “free state of expression” lead the creators to their latest line of custom-made ‘hoodies,’ allowing buyers to communicate their personal style and source of pride. As explained by the designer, Twerandu, they “allow customers to subtly and stylishly speak messages that showcase the vibrancy and diversity of the African continent”. Through this vision, the story of the hunt starts to incorporate the glory of the lion.

Jamhuri Wear has recently reached mainstream culture in the United States thanks to its enthusiastic reception from well-known entertainers. Acclaimed R&B singer, Akon, has worn the brand numerous times in his music videos. Other supporters include Tom Morello of Audio Slave, reggae singer Damian Marley and producer Prince Paul. Hip-hop mogul Jay-Z has also been seen wearing the label, notably during his UN-backed Global tour in Tanzania and during his mega performance at the Live 8 concert in Philadelphia with Linkin Park in July of 2005. Jamhuri Wear has also been featured in reputable publications including Vibe, XXL, Complex magazine, Blow and Stuff magazine.

With this recognition and momentum, the company has crystallized into its image as the founder and leader of a fresh new genre of conscious and modern, yet rooted African fashion. It is an organic entity with its finger on the pulse of today’s pop culture and new world market.

Interview

 Jamati: What inspired you to start Jamhuri Wear?

 Kimathi: I felt  there was a void in the way Africa was being represented in the Fashion
 industry, The continent was bringing the models, but not dressing them.
So we wanted to add on to the story.

 Jamati: Are there any Designers you look to for inspiration?

 Kimathi: Yes, cause once one is lifted others are inspired and these are the few that  inspire me…Moshood, Oswald Boatang  Fundi  Frank, Ralph Lauren, Stone
Cherry and of course Russell Simmons

 Jamati: Now, the main reason I really wanted the world to hear about you is
 because of how well you’ve managed to place your products.   I mean I’ve
 seen your T-shirts on everyone from Akon to Jay-Z.  Who else wears Jamhuri
 themed shirts and who would you like to see wearing your T-Shirts?

 Kimathi: Like you said , Jay– Z, Tom Morello, Akon, K’naan, and Damian Marley.   Some one  I would love to see wearing one of my pieces is none other than  the future president of the free world himself Barack Obama.

 Jamati:  What’s in store for Jamhuri Wear? Do you have any intentions of
 expanding the line?

 Kimathi:  Absolutely…we will get into the full range of outfits and divesity for our customers.. and just keep putting out that fresh dope stuff we have been known to bring.. It’s just
 a matter of time We’re also doing other things with the Jamhuri brand,
though.

 Jamati:  Really, When and what can we expect to see next?
 Kimathi:  We believe that every story needs a soundtrack so we are doubling in Music and visuals as well, We are  just as exicted to be able to do this.
 Jamati: Besides fashion, what other things interest you?

 Kimathi: A lot man;  We are into infusing and attaching our heritage to repackaging that African IMAGE and promoting this  Safari Lifestyle.  We understand this will encompass  a lot of facets of life…and we trying to get better at all this and still do it well, that’s the enjoyment of it cause we don’t have any boundaries…Its all about dignity to us.

 Jamati:  Bwana Kimathi, thanks for your time.  Before I let you get back to
 your busy schedule, do you have any advice for young entrepreneurial minds
 like yourself that want to break into the game?

 Kimathi:  LIVE IT!  LEARN IT! AND LOVE IT! That’s what I do everyday now.
 I had a choice to work a safe career, but instead I took a chance.  It’s not
 easy but if you get joy out of it then go for it!
 Jamati:  Thanks for your time, I have no doubt, that this is just the
 beginning of your success.   All the best to you in your future endeavors
 and see you at the next level.
For more Information contact:
 
Jeffrey Kimathi
Marketing Manager
Jamhuri Wear LLC|New York, NY|Phone: 1 800 9 Jamhuri

Jamhuri@jamhuriwear.com
www.jamhuriwear.com
www.myspace.com/jamhuriwear