Hundreds attend first-ever South C business networking forum

Hundreds of entrepreneurs, business representatives, and corporate leaders gathered in South C, Nairobi, on Thursday for the first-ever business networking forum in the area.

Somalia's Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, and former Mandera Senator, Billow Kerrow, presided over the event, which drew a wide range of participants from various sectors. 

The event aimed to foster networking opportunities and create a platform where businesses could identify ways to support and benefit from each other.

It further brought together small and medium enterprises (SMEs), corporate representatives, and local businesses, offering them the opportunity to interact, share knowledge, and explore potential collaborations.

Among the attendees were senior officials from notable brands such as Hass Petroleum, Stima Sacco, the taxi-hailing company Faras, Villa Kazi Home, Gulf African Bank, KCB, and Absa Bank.

Several speakers emphasised the importance of such events, highlighting the potential for economic growth in South C and the broader Nairobi region.

Delegates attend the South C Business Networking Forum in South C, Nairobi, on Thursday, October 17, 2024. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

Ambassador Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle emphasised the importance of holding the event regularly to further benefit the local business community.

He noted that South C has seen significant growth, not only in terms of business but also in real estate, with several ongoing construction projects. He further reflected on his visit to the area 20 years ago, describing the transformation from a quiet neighbourhood to a bustling economic hub.

"It is inspiring to see people transforming this area economically," Ambassador Jabril said. "South C is becoming a new business hub, and the real estate sector is thriving."

The ambassador also spoke about the entrepreneurial spirit of the Somali community, sharing that leaders and diplomats from the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan had approached him seeking to connect with Somali investors.

According to Jabril, these diplomats recognise the economic benefits that Somali entrepreneurs bring to the areas where they operate and are eager to establish partnerships in their countries.

Former Senator Billow Kerrow, a long-time resident of South C, expressed his personal connection to the event. He further acknowledged the area's rapid development over the years, particularly in infrastructure.

However, Billow also urged local businesses and residents to seek more government support in delivering essential services, such as water, to complement the growing infrastructure.

Delegates attend the South C Business Networking Forum in South C, Nairobi, on Thursday, October 17, 2024. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

“A lot of businesses are going to be here, so it's good to have such events," Billow said. "Infrastructure here is growing, but the government needs to provide services such as water."

Young attendees also found value in the event. Mohamed Said, one of the young participants, expressed his enthusiasm about the lessons he learnt.

Mohamed, who runs a small business in Eastleigh's Jam Street, said that the networking opportunity was particularly beneficial for him as a young entrepreneur.

"I exchanged contacts and networked," said Mohamed. "The lessons I have received here were worth my time, and hopefully I will see more of such events."

The speakers and attendees all hailed the event as a significant step in the right direction for South C's business community. They noted that similar events have historically been held in Eastleigh, and many expressed optimism that South C will continue to grow as a centre for business and investment.

The forum ended with discussions on future events and continued networking among the participants, leaving many hopeful for increased collaboration and opportunities in the South C area.