As Kenya’s digital economy expands, ring lights have become a vital tool for content creators, entrepreneurs, and small businesses aiming to improve their online presence.

Initially a niche product for photographers, ring lights are now widely used across Nairobi and beyond, with retailers reporting a significant rise in sales. This growth is driven by platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and e-commerce sites that reward high-quality visuals.

From Personal Use to Thriving Business

Joy Wanjiku, founder of Cherry Accessories based in Nairobi’s Imenti House, explains how the Covid-19 pandemic revealed the need for better lighting during video production. “We started selling ring lights about seven years ago when the pandemic hit,” she recalls. What began as a solution for her own business quickly grew into a successful venture supplying ring lights, LED panels, and content creation accessories.

Wanjiku envisions local manufacturing of these devices to reduce dependency on imports. “The market is embraced by so many people; everyone wants an online platform, whether personal or business,” she says.

Diverse Customer Base and Popular Models

While young, tech-savvy users initially dominated purchases, the customer profile now spans all ages, including older entrepreneurs such as mitumba traders adopting online sales.

  • The most sought-after model is the 10-inch ring light, priced at around Sh1,000 with a tripod.
  • Other options range from pocket-sized lights at Sh650 to battery-powered outdoor kits costing between Sh3,000 and Sh8,000.
  • Customers often buy ring lights bundled with tripods and wireless microphones, emphasizing the importance of both lighting and sound quality.

Sales peak during school holidays, especially the third term, as young people explore content creation.

Market Growth and Emerging Trends

Maryam Wanjage of Hydon Enterprise notes steady demand growth over six years, with Gen Z and millennials investing heavily in improving their digital content. Hydon sells over 2,000 ring lights monthly, priced between Sh1,300 and Sh6,000 depending on size and features.

Robert Polycap, founder of Ringtech Nairobi, highlights that women make up a slightly larger share of buyers, reflecting their strong presence on social media platforms. Ringtech sells about 150 units weekly, with prices ranging from Sh1,000 to Sh10,000.

Robert attributes the surge in demand to the digital shift in business operations. “We’ve reached the age of content creation. Everything is online. To attract customers, you must market yourself online,” he says.

Shifting Preferences and Future Opportunities

Although ring lights remain popular, some customers are transitioning to more advanced lighting options like fill lights and LED panels, signaling increased consumer sophistication.

Despite growing competition, retailers see ample room for market expansion as the number of content creators and online businesses rises nationwide.

The widespread delivery services from Mombasa to Kakuma underscore the product’s broad reach. The rise of ring lights highlights Kenya’s evolving economy where quality visual presentation is a key competitive edge for diverse businesses.

Local manufacturing of lighting equipment could reduce costs and create jobs, offering further growth potential in this sector.