Baya Mugaza Ndale, a skilled silversmith on Lamu Island, has achieved success by learning the art of silver crafting through observation rather than formal education. He has practiced this trade for over 30 years and now teaches others while running his own shop in Watamu. His expertise supports his family and offers advice to youth on embracing manual trades.
Baya Mugaza Ndale is a renowned silversmith on Lamu Island, working at Slim Silversmith in the Mkomani neighborhood of Lamu Old Town. Born on July 7, 1975, in Rabai, Kilifi County, he is now 51 years old. After completing eighth grade at Bedida Primary School in Kaloleni in 1991, he could not continue education due to family poverty.
He took on various jobs before moving to Mombasa, where he worked as a cleaner in a silversmith shop in Kibokoni. There, he learned the craft by watching experts melt and shape silver into jewelry. "I didn't pay any fees to join an institution or college to learn silversmithing. I acquired the skill by observing friends and elders who were experts in the field, until I became proficient," Mugaza says.
He has practiced for over 30 years and moved to Lamu about five years ago, hired by his former employer, the late Mubarak Omar Slim. His creations, such as rings and necklaces, sell for Sh1,000 to Sh10,000. In a good month, he earns over Sh40,000. He also trains apprentices who pay Sh4,000 to Sh10,000 monthly.
These earnings enabled him to open his own shop in Watamu, Kilifi County, managed by his 22-year-old son. His 21-year-old daughter works abroad. He credits mentors like Munir Mohamed and Swaleh Mohamed for his success. Challenges include slow business seasons and lack of protective gear, leading to injuries.
Mugaza advises youth to pursue manual trades for self-reliance instead of waiting for office jobs.