About

Our History

Amani began in 1996 with four refugee women sewing placemats together in Nairobi, Kenya. One of those was American missionary, Becky Chinchen, who experienced refugee life when she and her family went into exile in Ivory Coast while fleeing the civil war in Liberia. After many long years of waiting for peace negotiations to hold among the warlords of Liberia Becky received the news that her home and earthly belongings had been lost to rebels in the region. All hope was lost of returning to Liberia.

In 1995, Becky and her family, along with many other refugees, found themselves in Kenya known at that time as an “island of peace”. Thousands of people were fleeing from the neighboring warring countries of Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, Uganda, Sudan and Somalia to the country of Kenya to find safety and refugee.

After experiencing the humiliation and hopelessness of refugee life Becky saw the need to affirm the dignity and worth of women around her. Along with 3 other refugee women, Amani ya Juu, “Peace from Above” was birthed. Skills in stitching, a love of African textiles, an eye for beauty, and a passion for spreading God’s peace converged. Through need, talent and desire Amani ya Juu was brought to life.

With a personal loan of $500, the women began making placemats in Becky’s home in Nairobi, selling them in hotels and shops around the city of Nairobi.

Becky saw great potential in this creative practice of doing business with the purpose of helping others find healing and restoration. Amani came into her own as a social economic enterprise, designed to bring healing and hope among the broken and economically challenged in society.

The Amani center in Nairobi has grown over the years into a thriving oasis in a bustling city. It now boasts a beautiful production building, a welcoming shop, and a spacious garden cafe. Many people who visit Amani Kenya witness first hand the powerful experience of God’s peace.

Our name, Amani ya Juu, is a Swahili saying which means “Peace from Above." We are a social economic enterprise committed to peace and reconciliation for women from many African nations and cultures. We use beautiful African materials to create high quality fair trade home goods and accessories. Through our faith in God who provides a transcendent peace, we heal from the past. Together we grow in dignity and respect for one another.

Reviews

Business Daily - Amani’s cuisine matches its ambiance perfectly in that both boast a wonderful simplicity. The menu, which is heavy on salads, complements the garden setting.

Lonely Planet - If tranquility is what you’re after, then Amani (meaning peace) is the perfect spot. Escape the hustle, bustle and traffic of Nairobi in their shady garden.

Brittany Noetzel - I was struck by the way that relationships between people who are very different can be so genuine at Amani whether you're American or African, no matter what tribe you represent you're valued.

Hours of operations

shop hours

Monday

8:o0 am - 5:30 pm

Tuesday - Saturday

8:00 am - 7:30 pm

Closed on Sunday

Cafe Hours