Renowned Kenyan fashion designer Bolo Bespoke has strongly refuted online rumours linking his wealth and success to the Illuminati or money laundering commonly known in Kenya as “wash wash.” Speaking candidly during an interview on Radio Maisha’s Connect Show, Bolo addressed the speculation surrounding his luxurious lifestyle and growing fashion empire.
“My success comes from hard work, not secret societies,” Bolo affirmed, dismissing claims that his rapid rise in the fashion world had any hidden strings attached.
The rumours gained momentum after his wife, Mueni, returned from a business trip to China. Online speculation suggested her travels were suspicious and hinted at questionable sources of income. Bolo was quick to silence the chatter: “Ameenda kutafuta ndio muwache kusema ni Illuminati,” he said in Swahili, meaning, “She has gone to hustle, so stop saying it’s Illuminati.”
Bolo insisted that everything he and his wife have achieved stems from effort and smart business. “Most people see tailors as people who only sit on sewing machines,” he explained. “But I run a full fashion empire.”
Indeed, Bolo Bespoke has become a top name in Kenya’s high-end fashion scene, known for his custom pieces for exclusive clients, particularly in weddings and special events. His business boasts a dedicated factory, several departments, a skilled team of employees, and a portfolio of high-income projects.
His flamboyant style and open display of wealth have drawn curiosity and criticism alike. However, Bolo remains unfazed. “I don’t even know what money laundering is,” he stated firmly, insisting that his income comes entirely from his craft.
In June, Bolo’s wife surprised him with a brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser, a gift she had been planning secretly for months. The gesture, while heartwarming, further fueled the rumours which Bolo continues to shrug off.
“People don’t want to believe that success can come from tailoring,” he said. “But I’m proof that it can.”
Bolo hopes his journey will inspire young creatives to see tailoring as a serious, profitable career and not just a sewing machine job.
