lifestyle

Meet little-known family behind Kenya’s Supa Loaf bread

Supa Loaf bread stands as an indisputable contender for the title of one of the most widely recognized bread brands in the nation. This delectable snack is meticulously crafted by Mini Bakeries Limited, a family-run enterprise that embarked on its journey in 1970, initiated by the entrepreneurial spirit of Nurzakhanu Akberali Manji and her spouse, Akberali Habib Manji.

The genesis of this multimillion-dollar company can be traced back to the humble origins of a home bakery, where the illustrious Ms. Manji, fondly known as ‘Mam Kubwa,’ dedicated herself to the art of baking and diligently served her loyal customers. With the unwavering support of her husband, they took the significant step of acquiring a business license and inaugurated a full-fledged commercial bakery in Port Reitz, Mombasa. The growth of their enterprise was so meteoric that their three sons eventually joined in to contribute to its management.

In the annals of 1983, the Manji family took a momentous leap forward by establishing Mini Bakeries in Mombasa, with the ambitious goal of manufacturing and distributing an array of bread varieties. Since then, this enterprise has burgeoned and ascended to secure a distinguished place among the premier bread brands in the country.

Supa Loaf has etched its name into the hearts of many Kenyan households, renowned for its distinctive flavor and unwavering freshness, rendering it the preferred choice for numerous discerning consumers. The brand’s excellence was underlined by its multiple nominations as a Super Brand in the years 2006, 2008, 2010, and 2011.

Over the course of decades, Supa Loaf has asserted its dominance in the market and cultivated an extensive customer base, not only within Kenya but also extending its reach into the broader East African region. Branches of Supa Loaf can now be found not only in Kenya but also in Uganda and Tanzania.

This foray into the East African market has translated into substantial economic impact, with the firm providing employment opportunities to over 3000 individuals, both directly and indirectly. According to media reports, the company churns out a staggering 2 billion slices of bread annually.

The Manji family’s business ventures extend beyond the realm of baking, encompassing enterprises such as Butali Sugar Mills, Island Paradise Inn, and Akiyda Bakeries. Their commitment to entrepreneurial excellence continues to leave an indelible mark on the business landscape of Kenya and beyond.