Somalia - Kenya Trade Week
What’s up, trade fam? Day Two of the Somalia-Kenya Trade Week went down at BBS Mall in Eastleigh, and the atmosphere was electric. Even though I couldn’t catch every interview, the trade floor was jam-packed with diverse, forward-thinking brands and companies that are reshaping the cross-border business scene. From traditional aromas to modern fintech, from upscale real estate to global development initiatives, here’s an in-depth breakdown of the standout players lighting up the event.
Beauty, Fashion & Lifestyle
Bloom Perfume Vendors
Step into the world of Bloom Perfume and you’re greeted by an array of captivating scents. These vendors are serving up high-quality perfumes that blend classic, timeless aromas with modern twists. Whether you’re after a signature scent or a bold statement fragrance, Bloom’s collection is all about leaving a lasting impression.
Kanzu Hub
For those who value tradition with a contemporary flair, Kanzu Hub is where heritage meets high street. Specializing in kanzus and other Muslim-inspired clothing, this stall offers pieces that honor cultural legacies while embracing modern style. It’s the perfect spot to pick up garments that speak to both your roots and your runway-ready vibe.
Real Estate & Hospitality
Creek Suites
Already making waves in our earlier sessions, Creek Suites continues to impress with its portfolio of premium properties. Their booth is a testament to sophisticated real estate investments that blend luxury with enduring legacy. If you’re looking to secure an asset that bridges tradition and innovation, Creek Suites has the blueprint.
Sun n’ Sand Beach Resort by Urban Point
“Every sunset tells a story”—and no one embodies that more than Sun n’ Sand Beach Resort.
- Heritage & Growth: Starting in 1971 as a humble 7-room hotel, it has evolved into an expansive resort spread over 16.5 acres on Kikambala Beach, Kilifi County.
- Accommodations: Today, it boasts 100 rooms (63 standard, 35 deluxe, and 1 presidential suite) along with a 15-storey tower featuring 55 two- and three-bedroom apartments.
- Amenities: Enjoy express check-in, 24/7 bilingual reception, concierge services, and an on-site gift shop. Conference facilities range from a 300-seat “Kikambala” hall to smaller spaces like “Habari” (50 seats), “Fahari” (50 seats), and “Jambo” (30 seats). Three restaurants—Safina Snack Restaurant, Fahari Restaurant, and Msafiri Coffee Shop—ensure you’re well fed, and there are massage and wedding packages on offer too.
- Location Advantages: A mere 28 km north of Mombasa, with Moi International Airport approximately 35 km away and Vipingo Airstrip just 10 km off.
- Contacts: +254 702 222 888 / +254 733 644 555 | sunnsand.co.ke
Willstone Homes – Windsor Ridge 3: Bungalows
For upscale, secure living, Willstone Homes is setting the bar with their Windsor Ridge 3 bungalows.
- Features: These bungalows come with three spacious bedrooms (complete with a walk-in closet in the master), a large lounge, a separate dining room, and an open-plan kitchen with a pantry and self-contained DSQ—all on a 50×100 plot in a gated community off Exit 14 along Thika Road.
- Pricing: Starting at KES 12.85 million, it’s a premium investment in modern family living.
- Contact: Rose is your go-to—reach her at 0700197450.
MaCaash Investments (Pronounced “Maash”)
MaCaash Investments is reimagining urban landscapes with projects that combine visionary planning with solid real estate fundamentals.
- New Voi Project: This project offers prime land starting at KES 999,000 for an eighth of an acre, located just 4 km from the Voi SGR on the Nairobi-Mombasa highway. Expect breathtaking views of the Taita Hills, access to mineral-rich lands, and plans for a master-planned community complete with gated housing, reliable utilities, security, recreational parks, and a proposed special economic zone with a dry port.
- Sunpark Residence: Located in Syokimau, these ready-to-occupy apartments (available in 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom layouts) start at KES 6.5 million. Amenities include a full-size swimming pool, fitness center, residents’ clubhouse with jacuzzi and steam rooms, event halls, sports facilities, landscaped gardens, on-site shops, elevators, and 24/7 CCTV.
- Contacts: Reach them at +254 726 111333 or +254 793 444222 | macaashinvestments.co.ke
Media & Information
The East African Newspaper
A true powerhouse in regional journalism, The East African Newspaper is leading the conversation at trade week. Their booth is buzzing with insights, breaking news, and comprehensive coverage of economic trends, making them indispensable for anyone keen on understanding the evolving trade landscape between Somalia and Kenya.
Banking, FinTech & Payment Solutions
Dahabshill Group
Dahabshill Group is all about revolutionizing financial transactions.
- Key Offerings: They seamlessly integrate MPESA with a secure international Mastercard, ensuring that all transactions are not only simple but also exceptionally secure. This innovative approach streamlines payments for businesses and individuals alike.
Salaam Microfinance Bank
With the mantra “Securing the Future Together,” Salaam Microfinance Bank offers robust banking solutions tailored to the modern trader.
- Products: Their Salaam Business and Personal Current Accounts allow you to access transactions via branches, ATMs, mobile money, internet, and agency banking channels.
- Benefits: Enjoy cheque books, free e-statements, and multi-currency support (including USD, EUR, and GBP) alongside friendly tariff charges and financing options.
- Locations: With branches in Nairobi CBD at Park Plaza and Eastleigh at BBS Mall, they’re never far away.
- Contacts: +254 710 544444, +254 717233333, +254 724 8888777; Helpline: +254 718 373737 | salaammfbank.co.ke
Faras Cabs
When navigating the urban maze, Faras Cabs is your lifeline.
- Features: Offering up to 30% discounts, Faras Economy rides, and options for both electric and non-electric bodas (motorbikes), Faras Cabs ensures you’re always moving.
- Perks: Their FarasMiles program offers 10% cashback after every trip, and the in-app SOS button guarantees safety on the go.
- How to Ride: Available on Google Play and the Apple App Store, or call 0111050550.
Healthcare & Sharia-Compliant Solutions
Kenbright & ShariaCare
For transparent, sharia-compliant healthcare financing, Kenbright’s ShariaCare is a game-changer.
- Core Promise: Immediate access to over 1,000 accredited healthcare providers.
- Coverage: Tier 1 hospitals include Aga Khan University Hospital, Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, MP Shah Hospital, and Nairobi Hospital, with additional coverage from Northlight, Ladnan, True Health, Healthgate, Mother & Child, ABM Specialized, Radiant Group, Nairobi South, and Juja Road Nursing Home.
- Investment Benefit: Earn a minimum of 5% return on unutilized funds in your ShariaCare wallet.
- Service Tiers: Choose from VIP, Platinum, Gold, or Standard packages to suit your healthcare financing needs.
- Operations: Active in Nairobi, Kampala, Dar es Salaam, and Kigali (HQ at ACK Garden House, 1st Ngong Avenue, Upperhill).
- Contacts: Esther Okello at +254 727 935603 or eokello@kenbright.africa | kenbright.africa
Food & Halal Meat
Choice Meats
For ethically sourced, halal-certified meat, Choice Meats is the branch of Farmers Choice dedicated to the Muslim community—and even to Christians who appreciate humane animal treatment. Their offerings ensure premium quality and ethical production for discerning palates.
NEEMA Livestock and Slaughtering Investments Limited
The heavyweight champion in halal meat, NEEMA Livestock is setting the gold standard in quality and safety.
- Products: They provide an extensive range of fresh and frozen beef, goat (chevon), and lamb products—from full carcasses to specialty cuts like strip loin, T-bone steak, and ossobuco.
- Capacity: Daily slaughtering of 15,000 sheep and goats and 500 heads of cattle, with chilling/freezing facilities for 12,000 animals or up to 30 tonnes of beef.
- Certifications: FSSC 22000 v.6, plus accreditations from the Kenya Bureau of Halal Certification, Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims, HCC East African Halal Confirmation Centre, and RACS.
- Market Impact: 85% of their products are exported to the Middle East.
- Online Shop: Order at neemalivestock.co.ke/shoptoorder
- Contacts: P.O.Box 8267 – 00610, Eastleigh, Nairobi; Phones: +254 701 152944 / +254 707 529014; Emails: info@neemalivestock.ke, sales@neemalivestock.ke; Socials: TikTok (@neemalivestock), Instagram (@neemalivestocksi), X (@NeemaOnline), Facebook (Neema Livestock & Slaughtering Investments).
Industrial & Construction Solutions
Apex Steel
Apex Steel is laying the foundation for tomorrow with a comprehensive range of steel products.
- Offerings: From apex TMX rebars and structured steel to cold-rolled sections, plates, and piping systems.
- Certification: ISO 9001:2015 certified—proof of their commitment to innovation, quality assurance, customer trust, and eco-friendly practices.
AGL (Alternative Glasses Limited)
When it comes to building solutions that combine durability with design, AGL is on the cutting edge. They offer:
- Products: Aluminum systems, glass solutions, UPVC systems, balustrades, railings, cladding solutions, accessories, and office partitioning—ensuring that every project shines with both style and strength.
Global & Development Initiatives
United Nations Somalia
Championing a green, prosperous future, the UN Somalia booth is all about global collaboration and community resilience.
- Jowgar Off-Stream Storage Program: A flagship initiative co-created with partners such as the FAO, UN Migration, UNEP, UN Habitat, UNIDO, Somalia Joint Fund, UN Peacebuilding, and support from the European Union.
- Mission: To build resilient, inclusive, safe, and prosperous communities in Middle Shabelle and beyond—a vital step toward harnessing local potential for a thriving tomorrow.
Airlines & Transportation
i-FLY AIR
Flying high as the Best Domestic Airline of 2023, i-FLY AIR is your ticket to seamless travel across East Africa.
- Routes & Schedules:
- Nairobi–Wajir: Flights run on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays with fares averaging around KES 5,000 (prices subject to variation).
- Nairobi–Mogadishu: Operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays with fares roughly KES 8,000.
- Special Package: For the road warriors, a round-trip package to Wajir includes a two-night luxury stay at Home 008—featuring premium accommodation and curated local attractions that highlight the region’s culture and scenic beauty.
- Contacts: Phones: 0111051990 / 0740 100100 / 0713 100100; Socials: Facebook (FlyFlyAir), Instagram (@ifly_air), X (@i_FlyAir), YouTube (ifly Air); Websites: ifly.co.ke / i-mall.co.ke
- Motto: “Wings of Africa”—each flight is a journey into opportunity.
Skyward Express
Skyward Express takes you to the heart of East Africa with style.
- Routes & Pricing:
- Nairobi–Mombasa: Starting at KES 5,500—“Jet-set, no hassle, just Coastal bliss.”
- Nairobi–Dar-es-Salaam: Priced around KES 11,000—“Relax, unwind, explore Dar for memories that linger 5* weekly.”
- Network Expansion: They also serve routes to Diani, Lamu, Kitale, Lodwar, Migori, and more—always expanding their horizons.
- Extra: Look out for their magazine “Angani” for travel inspiration and exclusive insights.
Agriculture & Food Regulation
Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) – Industrial Crops Directorate
The AFA’s Industrial Crops Directorate is the backbone of Kenya’s traditional crops sector—pioneering the regulation and development of miraa, pyrethrum, and other industrial crops.
- Vision & Mission: To become a world-class regulator that sustainably develops crop value chains for robust economic growth.
- Core Functions:
- Regulation, development, and promotion of the miraa and pyrethrum industries.
- Ensuring quality control, market transparency, and competitive trading practices.
- Stakeholder Rights:
- Courtesy, timely responses, privacy, access to information, quality services, a conducive environment, and effective communication.
- Stakeholder Obligations:
- Be courteous and respectful, provide precise information, offer honest feedback, adhere to stipulated regulations and policies, maintain integrity, and embrace innovative, competitive agricultural practices.
- Impact: By supporting farmers and industrial stakeholders, the Directorate ensures that traditional crops like miraa not only survive but thrive in a modern economic landscape.
Final Thoughts on Day Two
Day Two at the Somalia-Kenya Trade Week at BBS Mall was a full-spectrum showcase of the best that East Africa has to offer. From the enticing aromas at Bloom Perfume and the rich cultural expressions at Kanzu Hub, to the groundbreaking real estate innovations of Creek Suites, Sun n’ Sand, Willstone Homes, and MaCaash Investments, the trade floor is a living mosaic of tradition, modernity, and relentless ambition.
Add to that the cutting-edge financial solutions from Dahabshill, Salaam Micro, and Faras Cabs; the transformative healthcare financing by Kenbright/ShariaCare; the ethical, high-quality halal meat from Choice Meats and NEEMA Livestock; and the state-of-the-art industrial products from Apex Steel and AGL—and you’ve got a trade week that’s rewriting the rules of engagement.
Throw in global development initiatives by the United Nations Somalia, dynamic air travel options with i-FLY AIR and Skyward Express, and robust agricultural regulation by the AFA’s Industrial Crops Directorate, and it’s clear: Day Two is a masterclass in cross-border collaboration and innovative business.
With the trade week wrapping up on Friday, 28th February, the journey is far from over. Stay tuned, keep your eyes peeled, and get ready for more bold moves, disruptive ideas, and the raw, unfiltered energy that only Somalia-Kenya Trade Week can deliver.
Peace, love, and unstoppable hustle—until next time, keep bridging borders and breaking barriers!
That’s a wrap on Day Two, folks. Every detail counts, every story inspires, and the future is ours to build.
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