• Since its establishment nearly 3 years ago, there has been “ups and downs” associated with the evolution of its environs and the ever shifting economy.

Kiamunyi neighborhood, situated in Rongai constituency, Nakuru County, accommodates fast growing businesses. Acacia Shopping Centre is one of these vibrant developments. Housing a variety of occupations including hairdressing, liquor shops and an eatery, the shopping centre has been a major contributor in securing a livelihood for these business owners.

Since its establishment nearly 3 years ago, there has been “ups and downs” associated with the evolution of its environs and the ever shifting economy.

Joyce (pseudonym), a salon owner, painted a picture of the nature of her line of work here. She indicated that the centre is serene but the topography where it sits presents a major disadvantage. Despite being established along the Nakuru- Kabarak road, the terrain overlooking the shopping centre tampers with its noticeability.

“As you can see, the land just outside the gate is raised. So when you are in a car you definitely cannot see this place. That’s definitely a lost customer. If there was a way to go about it, then that would be of much benefit to us,” she said.

She additionally touched on the harassment by County Council Officers regardless of having valid licenses, occasioning a disrupted working environment. This has led to a reduced competitive essence of the business.

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A salon in Acacia Shopping Centre. (Photo/ Courtesy: Patrick Kimani)

“Irrespective of everything else, a hairdresser markets herself. How well you do your job guarantees an increase in the number of walk-in clients,” she added.

Fidel, a liquor shop owner, also gave an insight on his venture. He noted that there has been gradual decrease in the number of trusted customers. On top of that, he alluded that the location of the centre a few meters away from a school (St. Cecilia Academy), is a major setback as his job ought to be accompanied by loud music.

A liquor store in Acacia Shopping Centre. (Photo/Courtesy: Patrick kimani)

“Liquor is a luxurious product, and the entertainment business demands late working hours. So, the boarding school and the residentials near us pose a threat to our profitability because we are now forced to close as early as 8 pm. This has resulted in our customers preferring clubs elsewhere. However, there is no possibility of closure without a single sale,” he implied.