In 2009, Muigui wa Kamaki made a bold investment by purchasing a piece of land along the Eastern Bypass. At the time, the area was bushy, undeveloped, and few could imagine it turning into the vibrant residential and commercial hub it is today.
Despite the wilderness, Kamaki took a risk and set up a small bar that resembled a kiosk. Stocked with just a crate of Tusker beer and two crates of soda, he named it “Kamaki’s” in honor of his father. Unknowingly, this humble beginning laid the foundation for what would later become the famous Kamaki’s Choma Zone, now celebrated across Nairobi and beyond for its mouthwatering nyama choma.
Over the years, Kamaki’s grew into a beloved weekend destination for families and friends looking to relax and share meals. The nyama choma joint created not just a business but a culture of togetherness, making it a must-visit spot for Nairobi residents.
Kamaki’s entrepreneurial journey was not without challenges. Over a decade ago, his house was demolished during the construction of the Eastern Bypass. Instead of giving up, he saw the opportunity and used it to start his first business when land prices were still relatively low.
Today, the area that once sold plots for as little as KSh 200,000 has transformed into a booming commercial hub, with land prices soaring into the millions. The growth of Kamaki’s from a three-crate bar to a thriving business zone mirrors the area’s remarkable transformation. Upscale pubs, supermarkets, car dealerships, residential estates, hardware stores, and luxury homes now surround the once-bushy land.
Looking back, Kamaki says he is proud that his venture not only succeeded but also created jobs and contributed to the growth of the region. As he recalls: “My house sat on the road, but I didn’t know that. It was partially demolished, but I decided to knock it down completely.”
From a demolished home to a thriving nyama choma empire, Kamaki’s story is a true testament to resilience, vision, and the power of entrepreneurship in shaping communities.