A considerable number of Kenyans have been making life-changing decisions to leave their homeland in search of better opportunities abroad. One such individual is Ndila Mweru, an entrepreneurial spirit who brought a taste of Kenya to the United Arab Emirates, and his story unfolds as narrated by us.
In 2007, Ndila Mweru, a father of three, decided to relocate to the Middle East, driven by dissatisfaction with his income from a job in one of Mombasa County’s industries. Seeking greener pastures, he set his sights on the dynamic city of Dubai.
His primary motivation was crystal clear – to provide a better life for his family. This aspiration led him to a distinctive entrepreneurial venture that would unfold in a foreign land.
Upon arriving in the United Arab Emirates, Mweru, like many expatriates, faced the challenges of adapting to a new environment. Yet, his unwavering determination and resilience opened doors to various job opportunities in Dubai before he found his calling at a Kenyan Tea Stand.
Little did Mweru anticipate that this venture would not only sustain him but burgeon into a thriving business resonating with both locals and expatriates. Situated in the vibrant Global Village, near Dubai’s trade exhibition district, Mweru’s tea shop has become a hub for those seeking the authentic taste of Kenyan tea.
Customers flock to Mweru’s establishment not just for a cup of tea but for a sip of nostalgia, specifically requesting Kenyan tea. His diverse clientele includes Arabs and foreigners drawn by the unique taste and aroma that distinguishes Kenyan tea.
In a candid interview with a Standard Correspondent, Mweru shared the motivation behind his significant move. “I left Kenya because, as a casual worker in one of Mombasa’s industries, my income was insufficient to meet my family’s needs. Jobs were scarce, so I came to Dubai to explore opportunities.”
What started as a quest for better employment transformed into a flourishing tea business that caters to Dubai’s diverse palate. Mweru, selling over 2,000 cups of tea daily, has perfected the art of quick service, ensuring his customers, many of whom are regulars, promptly receive their daily dose of Kenyan tea.
Priced at 2 Emirati Dirhams (approximately Sh. 80) per cup, Mweru’s tea business generates a minimum of Sh. 100,000 in daily revenue, a staggering figure showcasing the demand for an authentic Kenyan tea experience. Mweru confidently asserts, “Clients come here because they know the value they get when they consume tea from home.”
Beyond the financial success, Mweru’s journey in Dubai has allowed him to immerse himself in the local culture, becoming fluent in Arabic. The prosperity of Mweru’s tea business has not only transformed his life but has also enabled him to invest back in Kenya. “I bought a piece of land and built. I have another business on the side.”
