Bustling Eastleigh business hub lures youth from Tanzania

The neighbourhoods of Eastleigh, Nairobi have become magnets for individuals from Kenya and beyond, drawn by the promise of opportunities in the rapidly developing area.

While many young people in Kenya often express frustration over the lack of local opportunities and seek ways to leave the country, Eastleigh presents a different narrative, with its diverse population and its bustling business hub attracting youths who are seeking alternative ways to earn a living.

Riziki Ramadhan Sindano and his friends relocated from Tanzania to Kenya in 2022. But now the group calls Nairobi and in particular Eastleigh as well as Shauri Moyo, Majengo home.

"When we first arrived in Kenya, we were employed to sell juice, but over time, we learned the ins and outs, faced challenges, and eventually decided to start our own fruit vending business."

Riziki and his friends ended up in Eastleigh unexpectedly, as it was merely a recommendation from one of the acquaintances.

A combination picture of juice hawker Riziki Ramazani serving his customers in Eastleigh, Nairobi, on March 16, 2024. (Photos: Justine Ondieki)

Operating as a group of seven young men stationed across Eastleigh, they supply fresh juice to residents, business owners and those who visit Eastleigh to do their shopping. Riziki highlights the advantages of their enterprise.

"Hawking fresh juice is a respectable job. It allows us to sustain ourselves in a foreign land without resorting to crime or other illegal activities. We are self-employed and have control over our earnings."

"Working for someone, particularly in a foreign country, can pose significant challenges. However, having our own business provides a buffer against the harsh realities that we faced when we first arrived."

Their daily routine involves procuring fresh fruits from local markets like Gikomba or Marikiti every morning.

Riziki said that despite facing challenges such as seasonal fluctuations in demand and perishable stock, they persevere.

"On a good day, we can make a profit of at least Sh2,000. We offer various flavours to cater to customer preferences, including mango, avocado, and mixed fruit juices," he said.

However, they acknowledge the obstacles inherent in their business, particularly during colder seasons when juice consumption decreases.

A combination picture of the mango and avocado juice sold by entrepreneurs Mashaa Athumani and Riziki Ramazani in Eastleigh, Nairobi, as pictured on March 16, 2024. (Photos: Justine Ondieki)

Masha Athman, another member of the group, reflects on their journey.

"Our lives have changed significantly. While we initially encountered many challenges, we now have a reliable source of income. Building a loyal customer base has been crucial to our success," Masha says.

"Our juice is priced between Sh10 and Sh50 and we've successfully cultivated a loyal clientele that consistently supports us."

Masha notes that their prices are friendly, which has boosted their sales significantly.

Looking ahead, Riziki and Masha aspire to expand their operations and economic prospects. Their story is emblematic of the opportunities available in Eastleigh, Nairobi, Kenya, which contrasts with the narrative of youth migration in search of better prospects abroad.

A combination picture of juice hawkers Mashaa Athumani and Riziki Ramazani during street interviews by The Eastleigh Voice in Eastleigh, Nairobi, on March 16, 2024. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

Riziki and Masha represent only a fraction of the diverse youthful population in Eastleigh who have sought alternative sources of employment.

They include individuals from various nationalities such as the Somali, the Karamajong from Uganda, and Burundians among others.

They all share common aspirations for opportunities and to improve lives in Kenya.

Kenya has witnessed a significant exodus of youth seeking opportunities both domestically and internationally. President William Ruto has been actively advocating for job creation initiatives, including opportunities for Kenyans abroad.

In a recent retreat with Members of Parliament and Cabinet members, he revealed negotiations with the government of Germany to secure employment for 250,000 Kenyan workers, with plans to finalise the agreement by June.

However, President Ruto expressed frustration with MPs prioritising job opportunities for their associates over the needs of the youth.

He emphasised the importance of seizing legal opportunities to alleviate unemployment and urged young people to embrace available prospects rather than dismissing certain job opportunities.