City Walk expands to Kisumu as Lakeside business hub thrives

Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga (center) joins City Walk family during the opening of the Kisumu Branch. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Footwear retailer City Walk has opened a new outlet in Kisumu, signaling growing confidence in the lakeside city as an emerging business hub.

The new branch, located at United Mall along the Kisumu-Kakamega road, becomes the company’s 31st outlet in Kenya, marking another milestone in its retail journey that began in 1991.

During the grand opening, Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga applauded City Walk for its investment in the city, which he described as a thriving and secure environment for business.

“Kisumu City is on the trajectory of improving the status of the business community and atmosphere. We welcome more investors to come,” Wanga said.

He emphasized the city’s commitment to creating a business-friendly climate, noting the critical role of businesses in driving economic growth.

“Businesses like City Walk provide young people with employment, and their wages help circulate money within the city,” he added.

City Walk’s Operations Manager, Grace Lyani, expressed excitement about the launch, underscoring the retailer’s strategic approach to growth.

“Our branches are strategically located, accessible, and convenient. We are thrilled by the buying power of Kisumu and look forward to further expansion,” Lyani said.

Lyani highlighted the importance of Kisumu’s growing consumer market in influencing City Walk’s decision to expand to the region.

“Kisumu is a city on the rise. Its vibrant market and improving infrastructure present an ideal environment for our business to thrive,” she noted.

Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga (center) joins City Walk family during the opening of the Kisumu Branch. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

The United Mall outlet is expected to offer a wide range of high-quality footwear and accessories to Kisumu’s consumers while creating new employment opportunities for locals.

Robinson Wagaka, the branch manager of City Walk’s new Kisumu outlet, affirmed the company’s commitment to providing excellent customer service.

“At City Walk, customer satisfaction is our priority. We aim to deliver a premium shopping experience tailored to the needs of Kisumu residents,” Wagaka said.

The opening of City Walk’s Kisumu branch reflects a broader trend of increased investment in the region.

With its strategic location along Lake Victoria and ongoing infrastructural improvements, Kisumu is quickly solidifying its reputation as a key economic hub in Kenya.

Wanga concluded by urging more investors to take advantage of Kisumu’s favorable business environment.

“Kisumu is open for business. We have laid the groundwork for success, and we invite more investors to join us in this journey of growth.”