Anthony Bishop, a Kenyan entrepreneur, has successfully established a thriving food business named Jikoni restaurant in Qatar, specializing in Kenyan and East African delicacies. His motivation is rooted in the desire to spare his children from the challenges he encountered. The restaurant has become a home away from home for Kenyans in Qatar, including notable personalities like Willis Raburu and his colleagues from Citizen TV.
Having graduated in Information Technology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Bishop moved to Qatar in 2016 seeking better opportunities. However, as his initial contract concluded, he faced the need to explore alternative employment. Despite contemplating a return to Kenya, Bishop’s determination and his mother’s encouragement kept him on track.
In collaboration with a friend from Pakistan who owned a restaurant, Bishop suggested dedicating Fridays to selling Kenyan delicacies. Though initially hesitant, the friend agreed, leading to an influx of Kenyan customers. Eventually, Bishop relocated the restaurant to Doha’s Old Airport street, closer to the majority of his clientele.
Jikoni restaurant’s menu features a range of Kenyan specialties, including githeri, mukimo, mutura, njahi (black beans), chapati, sukuma wiki, and matumbo. Notably, approximately 90 percent of the ingredients are sourced directly from Kenya, ensuring authenticity.
The entrepreneur emphasized the importance of resilience and tenacity, citing the example of Metro Man, who achieved international acclaim. Looking ahead, Bishop envisions franchising his business within the next five years, with multiple branches spreading across different locations. He attributes his success to his ingenuity, adaptability, and effective interpersonal skills.
