Shovel Barber: The Kenyan Star Cutting Hair with Unusual Tools

In Kenya, a barber named Safari Martins, known online as “Chief Safro,” has gained viral fame and millions of followers by using unconventional tools like shovels, agricultural shears, and sharpened iron boxes to give haircuts, blending his unique barbering style with traditional African folk tales in his social media videos.

Based in Nairobi, Martins charges up to 1,500 Kenyan shillings (about $12) for a cut—a significant premium in a market where trims can cost a tenth of that—attracting customers who want both a distinctive haircut and the chance to be featured on his popular platforms.

His rise coincides with Kenya’s breakneck social media growth, which saw user numbers surge nearly 50% between 2023 and 2025, creating new opportunities for content creators.

However, Martins voices a common frustration among influencer barbers, noting that despite their viral success and high engagement, they often don’t receive the same lucrative brand deals or respect as creators in niches like gaming or lifestyle.