UK High Commissioner visits BBS Mall, impressed by security, infrastructure innovations

The Business Bay Square (BBS) mall in Eastleigh continues to attract high-profile visitors, with the United Kingdom's High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, among the latest to make a notable visit. 

Neil was warmly received by Kamukunji Member of Parliament, Yusuf Hassan, on Monday, alongside top mall officials, including Chairman Maalin Weli and CEO Munir Ahmed.

During his visit, Wigan took the opportunity to explore various sections of the expansive mall. His tour included visits to the food court, electronics section, cosmetic stores, and clothing outlets. 

One of the key highlights of the tour was a visit to the mall's advanced CCTV monitoring system, where he observed how movements throughout the facility are tracked and managed. This demonstrated the mall's security measures, which play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of both shoppers and business owners.

The High Commissioner also engaged with shoppers as part of his tour. In addition, he inspected the mall's backup power system and reviewed the drainage infrastructure, underscoring his interest in the mall's operational efficiency. 

A special briefing was given on the mall's upcoming gold market, which is expected to further enhance the facility's status as a central business hub in Nairobi.

Speaking to the Eastleigh Voice after his tour, Wigan shared his thoughts on the visit. He explained that he had heard much about the mall and had long wanted to see it in person. He expressed admiration for the scale and operations of the mall, noting its role in international trade.

"I was very impressed just by the size and the scale of the mall—the retail, but also the international connections on the trade and how it has become a centre of business for Nairobi and all of Kenya," Wigan said.

UK High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, on Monday, September 23, 2024, visited the BBS Mall in Eastleigh, Nairobi.

He also highlighted his positive impression of Eastleigh, stating that he always feels safe and comfortable when visiting the fast-growing business district. He mentioned that this visit marked his second time in Eastleigh and that it felt somewhat familiar due to his previous diplomatic service in Somalia.

"It feels like coming back home, a little bit like Somalia, so it feels very familiar in terms of culture and the warm hospitality. I am very grateful for the welcome," Wigan added.

BBS Mall CEO Munir Ahmed noted the significance of the High Commissioner's visit. He emphasised that such visits are a testament to the safety and high standards that the mall upholds as a prominent business destination in Nairobi.

Munir described BBS Mall as a thriving commercial hub within Eastleigh, which is known for its vibrant business activities that extend beyond Kenya's borders.

"BBS Mall continues to attract high-profile figures due to its vibrancy and its location in Eastleigh, the busiest business hub in East and Central Africa. Eastleigh hosts businesses that export to the wider East Africa region, all the way to eastern Zaire. It is no surprise that political leaders and diplomats find it worthwhile to visit and get to know this area," Munir said.

BBS Mall is currently recognised as the largest mall in East and Central Africa, reinforcing Eastleigh's reputation as a key commercial centre in the region. The mall plays a critical role in the local economy, serving both domestic and international markets.

UK High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, describes Eastleigh as a welcoming and secure place following his visit to BBS Mall on Monday. pic.twitter.com/CkPWEQFKS3

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) September 23, 2024