In brief
The beauty studio run by Kenyan food creator That Girl Boina closed after her team diverted payments to private accounts, a problem uncovered by an Instagram DM. Her account of the theft on TikTok drew nearly a million views and sparked discussions among small‑business owners about rising employee fraud. Similar cases in East Africa, including the collapse of major retailers such as Tuskys and Nakumatt, show employee theft can erode a company’s cash flow and reputation. Loss‑prevention experts warn that even subtle shifts in cash handling or procurement can lead to massive losses and advise tighter controls and swift action. Boina’s story underscores the need for vigilance and balanced disciplinary practices for all businesses operating on tight margins.
When that Girl Boina, a popular Kenyan food creator, took a two‑week break to Europe, she expected peace of mind. Instead, an Instagram direct message from a client exposed a hidden problem that would soon bring her waxing and hydrafacial studio down for good.
The message was simple: “I was at your studio, it was good, but the money was being sent to a number that was not the one on your wall.” A quick check revealed staff had redirected payments to private accounts. No amount was huge at first, but the cumulative effect was devastating, cutting revenue that had once kept the business afloat.
Boina had opened Waxaholic Studio in Nairobi’s business district on 1 September 2024, with a receptionist and two specialists. There was optimism and a desire to grow; she even planned a trip outside the country in 2025. Instead, she found the money not adding up, plateauing sales, and a sense that her loyal team wasn’t acting in the studio’s best interests.
Rather than launch a confrontation, she shut the studio in October 2025, put it on sale, and sold off equipment and décor. A viral TikTok video posted in September, shared on X, drew almost a million views and prompted other Kenyan small‑business owners to speak openly about unreported employee theft.
It wasn’t just an isolated incident. East African retailers such as Tuskys and Nakumatt have reported losses exceeding $100 million linked directly to employee fraud, with cash misappropriation and supplier manipulation cited as key issues. Loss‑prevention specialist John Wanjohi notes that employee theft accounts for more than 60% of losses in small businesses.
“Theft is not just moving money to a phone; it can be subtle pseudocashier practices, collusion with suppliers, or hidden inventory gaps,” Wanjohi explains. When the theft has been exposed, employers must gather evidence, allow the accused to respond, and act within the law before terminating staff, he advises.
Boina’s experience can serve as a blueprint. She now prefers to “hire slow and fire fast,” investing in tighter controls over cash, inventory, and procurement. “I cannot teach you integrity” she concludes, a warning that every owner must keep a watchful eye over the people they trust most.
