A significant number of Kenyans have made 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. His inspiring journey is one of perseverance and success.
In 2007, Ndila Mweru, a father of three, made the bold decision to relocate to the Middle East, driven by dissatisfaction with the meager income from his job in one of Mombasa County’s industries. Seeking greener pastures, he set his sights on Dubai, a city known for its dynamic growth and opportunities.
Mweru’s primary motivation was simple yet powerful – to provide a better life for his family. This aspiration led him to an entrepreneurial venture that would eventually take root in a foreign land.
Upon his arrival in the United Arab Emirates, Mweru, like many expatriates, faced the challenges of adjusting to a new environment. Yet, his relentless determination and resilience led him to a variety of job opportunities in Dubai. Eventually, he discovered his calling at a Kenyan Tea Stand.
What began as a small venture soon transformed into a flourishing business that not only sustained him but resonated with both locals and expatriates alike. Situated in the vibrant Global Village, close to Dubai’s bustling trade exhibition district, Mweru’s tea shop quickly became a popular destination for those in search of authentic Kenyan tea.
Customers visit Mweru’s establishment not just for a cup of tea, but for a taste of nostalgia, with many specifically requesting Kenyan tea. His clientele includes both Arabs and foreigners, all drawn by the distinct taste and aroma that sets Kenyan tea apart from others.
In a candid interview with a Standard Correspondent, Mweru reflected on the reasons behind his 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 search for better employment eventually blossomed into a thriving tea business that caters to Dubai’s diverse palate. Mweru, who sells over 2,000 cups of tea daily, has perfected the art of efficient service, ensuring that his customers, many of whom are regulars, receive their daily cup of Kenyan tea promptly.
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 remarkable figure that highlights the demand for an authentic Kenyan tea experience. Mweru confidently states, “Clients come here because they know the value they get when they consume tea from home.”
Beyond his financial success, Mweru’s journey in Dubai has allowed him to immerse himself in the local culture, becoming fluent in Arabic. The prosperity of his tea business has not only transformed his life but also enabled him to invest back in Kenya. “I bought a piece of land and built. I have another business on the side,” Mweru shared.
Through hard work and entrepreneurial spirit, Ndila Mweru has not only reshaped his own life but has also shared the taste of Kenya with the people of Dubai. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and the pursuit of dreams.
