Kenya’s vibrant economy is a tapestry woven from diverse cultures and influences, with the Indian community playing a pivotal role in its development.
Since the late 19th century, Indian businessmen have been instrumental in shaping various sectors, from manufacturing and trade to technology and agriculture.
In this article, WoA delves into the lives and legacies of some of the most influential Indian businessmen in Kenya.
1. Baloobhai Patel
Baloobhai Patel is the managing director of Transworld Safaris Limited and holds significant stakes in companies like Co-operative Bank, Absa Bank, Carbacid Investments, Bamburi Cement, and Sanlam Kenya.
His recent acquisitions include 20.5 million shares in Co-op Bank, raising his stake to 1.29%, and 5.8 million shares in Absa Bank, pushing his ownership above 1%.
Patel is recognized for his strategic, long-term investment approach and remains a key figure in Kenya’s financial landscape.
2. Bhimji Depar Shah
Bhimji Depar Shah is the founder of Bidco Group, established in 1970.
Initially focused on garment manufacturing, the company expanded into soap production in 1985 and edible oils in 1991, becoming a leading manufacturer in East Africa with over 50 brands across 13 countries.
Bidco generates an annual revenue exceeding $846 million.
Shah, who has no formal college education, is recognized as one of Kenya’s wealthiest individuals.
3. Manu Chandaria
Manu Chandaria is the chairman and CEO of the Comcraft Group, a multinational conglomerate specializing in steel, aluminum, and plastics, with operations in over 40 countries and employing around 40,000 people.
Chandaria founded Comcraft in 1951, expanding it from its humble beginnings into a billion-dollar enterprise with estimated revenues exceeding $2 billion annually.
He is also known for his philanthropic efforts through the Chandaria Foundation, focusing on education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation across Africa.
4. Narendra Raval
Narendra Raval is the founder and chairman of Devki Group, a leading manufacturer of cement and steel in East Africa, with annual revenues exceeding Ksh 100 billion.
Raval started his business journey with a small steel mill in 1992 and has since expanded into various sectors, including cement production and oxygen supply during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He is known for his modest lifestyle despite his wealth, owning only one pair of shoes and frequently using public transport.
Raval actively engages in philanthropy, contributing significantly to health and education initiatives in Kenya.
5. Dhiren Chandaria
Dhiren Chandaria is a prominent businessman and CEO of Insta Products, a company specializing in ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF) aimed at combating malnutrition.
He acquired Insta Products in 2012, transforming it from a struggling entity into a leader in the manufacture of nutritional products, supported by an $11 million loan from various financial institutions.
Chandaria also founded Orbit Chemicals, Kenya’s largest contract manufacturer, and has extensive experience in building businesses across North America and Africa.
He is committed to social impact, partnering with organizations like UNICEF and FAO to support local farmers and improve food security.
6. Chandu Shah
Chandu Shah is a prominent Kenyan entrepreneur and the founder of AquaSanTec, established in 1989.
The company specializes in water security products and is recognized as East Africa’s largest manufacturer and wholesaler in this sector, generating over $50 million in annual revenue.
AquaSanTec is well-known for its Kentainers brand of water tanks, produced across multiple East African countries. is well-known for its Kentainers brand of water tanks, produced across multiple East African countries.
7. Kirit Patel
Kirit Balubhai Patel is a prominent Indian businessman and politician in Kenya, known for his leadership in the Ramco Group.
As the chairman, he has overseen significant growth in various sectors, including hardware and manufacturing.
Patel’s career began in the hardware industry, and he has been instrumental in expanding the group’s investments across East Africa.
