Crown Paints recently concluded its Twende Mara na Crown Paints initiative, treating over 60 of the country’s top-performing Team Kubwa painters to a three-day experiential retreat in the heart of the Maasai Mara.
The excursion served as a thank you to the artisans, who were selected from various regions including Nairobi, Meru, Kisumu, and Kisii. By swapping their brushes for binoculars, the painters were recognized for their unwavering loyalty and their pivotal role in driving the brand’s market dominance.
The adventure began at the company’s Likoni Road headquarters, where the group was flagged off by Crown Paints Group Vice Chairman Hussein Ramji and Group CEO Mustafa Turra. The send-off underscored a core corporate philosophy: the painter community isn’t just a customer base, they are the backbone of the brand’s success.
“These initiatives reflect our commitment to transforming lives across our value chain,” noted CEO Mustafa Turra. “We are proud to support our painters by equipping them with skills and opportunities that improve their livelihoods.”
The itinerary was carefully curated to balance relaxation with professional development. While the participants enjoyed the breathtaking vistas of the Great Rift Valley and the thrill of game drives, the trip also featured a dedicated painters’ forum.
During the forum, Crown Paints experts conducted live demonstrations of specialized products:
- Crown Plast Waterproof Skimcoat: Showcasing advanced moisture protection.
- Rainprotek: Highlighting durability against Kenya’s varied climate.
This session proved invaluable for the attendees, providing a rare opportunity for direct feedback and peer-to-peer knowledge exchange. The learning extended beyond modern chemistry to traditional wisdom; the group visited a Maasai homestead to study indigenous building techniques and engage with local women builders.
The evenings were dedicated to networking under the stars. Around Maasai-style bonfires, painters shared stories and strategies, forging a sense of community that transcends regional borders.
For many, like painter Thomas Odhiambo, the trip was a milestone. “This is the first time I’ve visited the Mara,” he shared. “Crown Paints has really shown us that they value our work and our partnership. It motivates me to keep growing with the brand.”