Brian Oruko: I am the errand guy for Kenyans in diaspora

Brian Oruko. (Courtesy)

How can you describe yourself?

I am the founder and managing director of Direct Errands and Logistics Services (Dels Kenya), a business venture committed to providing reliable and efficient errand and logistics services across Western and North Rift regions of Kenya. My background is rooted in customer service, and I am passionate about creating solutions that simplify life for our clients.  I am also a dad to two amazing boys, Miguel and Mordecai.

Where did you get the idea of this type of business?

The idea came from observing the growing need for trusted and reliable errand services, especially for people who are either too busy or live abroad and need a dependable hand to take care of tasks for their loved ones back home.

When did you start it and what does the business entail?

Dels Kenya was established in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic and has grown steadily since then. Our business involves running errands for individuals and businesses. We also do surprise gifting, project and building supervision services, elderly caregiving services, personal assistant services, bulk shopping and delivery to homes, home checks services, back to school errands, e-commerce and last mile logistics services. We cater to a diverse clientele, including individuals in the diaspora, busy professionals, and local businesses.

Tell us about the back to school errand programme.

Our back to school errand programme is designed to support parents and guardians who may be tied up with work or live far from the school. We handle everything from picking up and delivering school supplies, attending meetings on behalf of parents, to collecting and delivering report cards. Clients typically need these services when they are unable to physically be there for their children due to distance, time constraints, or being abroad.

How have you managed to develop trust among customers, especially those in the diaspora?

Trust is built on transparency, reliability, and excellent communication. We maintain open lines of communication with our clients, providing real-time updates and ensuring that they feel involved in the process. Additionally, we vet and train our staff rigorously to ensure they meet the high standards expected by our clients.

What makes customers in the diaspora use your services as opposed to using relatives?

Customers in the diaspora often prefer our services because of the professionalism and consistency we offer. Unlike relying on relatives who may be occupied, lack of trust or lack the expertise, Dels Kenya provides dedicated services with a high level of accountability, ensuring that tasks are handled efficiently and without any personal complications.

How much do you make in a good month? Do you have any other business or work besides this one? In a good month, the business generates a good amount that sustains its operations. Besides Dels Kenya, I am also involved in podcasting and business brilliance talk sessions, which complements my passion for providing essential services to the community.

Briefly describe the journey since you started until now.

The journey has been one of growth and learning. We started with a small team and a few clients, but through word of mouth and consistent service delivery, we have expanded significantly. There have been challenges along the way, especially in scaling the business and maintaining the quality of service across a growing client base, but the positive feedback from our clients has kept us motivated.

How do you get your clients?

Our clients find us through various channels, including referrals, social media, and our website. We also have a strong presence in local communities, which has helped us build a network of loyal customers. We ensure that we are easily accessible through phone, email, and online platforms to cater to our clients’ needs.

How do you manage to serve the whole of Western and North Rift? Any future expansion plan?

We manage to serve these vast regions by having a well-coordinated team that understands the local geography and the needs of our clients. We have regional offices and a fleet of vehicles that allow us to operate efficiently. Looking ahead, we plan to expand our services to other parts of Kenya and potentially explore partnerships that could see us offer our services nationwide.

Any memorable experience with a client? A notable memorable experience was when we helped a client in the diaspora organise a surprise birthday party for their elderly mother. We handled everything from purchasing gifts, decorating the venue, and coordinating with local vendors, all while keeping the client informed every step of the way. The joy and gratitude expressed by both the client and their mother made it an unforgettable experience.