Eastleigh’s BBS Mall unveils Africa’s largest gold souk in grand ceremony
Joho assured the business community of the government’s support for the mining sector, encouraging investment in legal gold mining.
Eastleigh marked a historic milestone on Saturday with the official launch of Africa’s largest gold souk at the Business Bay Square (BBS) Mall, a commercial giant that continues to redefine business in the region.
Set within the continent’s largest shopping mall, the gold souk is poised to attract both wholesale and retail gold buyers from across Africa and beyond, further cementing Eastleigh’s reputation as a premier trading hub.
The facility is expected to unlock significant economic opportunities, building on BBS Mall’s already impressive workforce of nearly 12,000 employees.
The event’s chief guest, Cabinet Secretary for Blue Economy and Mining Ali Hassan Joho, highlighted the importance of gold mining and value addition in strengthening Kenya’s economy.
“Kenya is rich in minerals, and I am well aware of the gold deposits in this country. However, for Kenya to fully benefit from its mineral wealth, we must prioritize value addition. This is a crucial step in positioning Kenya as a global commercial hub. The gold we extract should be processed here before it reaches international markets.”
Joho assured the business community of the government’s support for the mining sector, encouraging investment in legal gold mining.
“There is immense potential in this sector. If you are interested in gold mining, obtain the necessary licenses, operate within the law, and pay your taxes. My ministry is here to support you. If you need a mining license, come to me, and I will fast-track the process,” he said.
He also reinforced President Ruto’s commitment to ensuring border communities receive equal treatment, stating: “Kenyans living in border counties are just as Kenyan as those in the central regions. Do not be apologetic about who you are. We must not accept oppression. The president’s directive was clear: all Kenyans, regardless of region or background, are equal and must be treated as such.”
Mining CS Ali Hassan Joho at the launch of the gold souk at BBS Mall on February 8, 2025. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)
Kamukunji MP Yussuf Hassan further emphasized the Somali community’s struggle for equal treatment, stating:
“For too long, we have been treated as second-class citizens in our own country. But today, we are happy that we have finally been recognized. Anyone who denies you your rightful place in society is an oppressor.”
Sheikh Munir Ahmed, CEO of BBs Mall, highlighted the souk’s role in transforming Nairobi into a centre for gold processing and jewellery manufacturing. He emphasized the mall’s commitment to excellence, highlighting its modern infrastructure and full licensing to ensure an exceptional shopping experience.
“Our goal is to attract investors and establish gold processing right here in Nairobi instead of exporting raw gold to Dubai. The infrastructure is modern, fully licensed, and designed to guarantee quality and security for all our shoppers,” said Sheikh Munir.
BBs Mall boasts a state-of-the-art, multi-layered security system that includes alarms, armed personnel, physical barriers, and discreet security measures to ensure customer safety.
Additionally, the mall offers ample parking, 300 well-maintained bathroom cubicles, mosque facilities, and other essential amenities designed to enhance foot traffic and provide a seamless shopping experience.
During the launch, leaders addressed misconceptions surrounding Eastleigh’s thriving business sector, strongly refuting allegations of illegal operations and tax evasion. Eastleigh Business Community Secretary-General Omar Hussein defended the legitimacy of local enterprises, stating:
“Many people assume that Eastleigh’s businesses operate illegally, but we are a major employer contributing significantly to the economy. If anyone doubts our business practices, let them come and learn from us,” Omar said.
Eastleigh North MCA Ahmedkhadar Dabar echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the economic importance of both BBS Mall and the newly launched gold souk.
Some of the community and political leaders at the launch of the gold souk at BBS Mall on February 8, 2025. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)
“This is the only gold market where both wholesale and retail buyers can access gold under one roof. The mall employs nearly 12,000 people, making it a crucial economic pillar. For decades, we have been marginalised despite our immense contribution to Kenya’s economy," he said.
"Some question why Eastleigh receives infrastructure developments, but the truth is, that we contribute billions in taxes every year. We urge the president to continue creating opportunities for us so we can contribute even more.”
Wajir County Woman Representative Fatuma Jehow used the occasion to challenge long-standing stereotypes that have portrayed Kenyan Somalis as outsiders in their own country. She stressed the community’s vital role in Kenya’s economic growth and called for equal recognition. She also applauded President William Ruto for scrapping the vetting process for Somali Kenyans, describing it as a long-overdue correction of historical injustices.
“We are Kenyans, and we have every right to participate in national leadership, including running for the presidency,” she asserted.
As the gold souk opens its doors to traders, investors, and customers from across the continent, Eastleigh’s position as a commercial powerhouse is now firmly established. Leaders at the event reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for fair treatment, equal opportunities, and the continued economic empowerment of their communities.
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