Meet trained diplomat who is thriving in makuti business

(Courtesy/Makutiroofing) After graduating with a degree in International Relations and Diplomacy, the job market gave DANIEL FARAJA lemons, but he opted to make lemonade by venturing into the makuti roofing business. Kindly tell us about your makuti roofing business Makuti Roofing Company is a roofing company based in Utawala, Nairobi and we operate across the country. We specialise on makuti roof construction, designing, thatching and we supply makuti, sisal poles, mazeras slabs and Pokomo mats across the country. I started this Venture in 2016 after graduating from university. I started the business because there were no jobs available and I had to look for other means to sustain myself and earn a living. Makuti, which constitutes the bulk of the raw materials you use is mainly sourced from Coastal region. How do you manage to operate in Nairobi? We source materials from Kwale and Kilifi counties. Villagers use coconut leaves to make the makuti which we buy from them and transport to Nairobi. Which structures are ideal for makuti roofing? Makuti can be used in any type of structures or buildings, and for aesthetics and the traditional look, makuti roofing is your go-to roofing. We construct makuti roofs for restaurants, hotels, lodges and camps mostly in the tourism sector but we are not limited to those. We also construct and thatch for individuals in their homes for a cool breeze especially in hot areas. How has your business journey been so far? It has not been a smooth ride. At first, the main challenge was sourcing for clients when we were new in the industry. But over time we have been able to create social media pages across all platforms and a website where we get clients. Satisfied customers also refer potential clients to us. For close to a decade, we have come through for a myriad of happy clients across the country, building a reputation as the go-to dealers for those in need of quality, reliable and affordable sustainable roofing materials. From restaurants, bars, lodges, hotels, homes, and other corporate and non-corporate properties, our extensive services undertaken by professionals and experts have transformed architectural norms with unique roof designs. What is your core challenge currently? The main challenge is maintaining a budget for advertisements on social media. Another challenge is how to reach new clients and also those that are interested in our services but don't know how to reach us. Do you think there are opportunities in makuti roofing business? Yes there are indeed massive opportunities in this business. We are looking to expand our clientele base to a point that Makuti roofing becomes an alternative option even for homes and residential areas and not just hotels and lodges in the tourism sector. The main challenge is how to reach new clients and also those who are interested in our services but don't know how to reach us. How has the reception of Makuti roofing been among Kenyans? We have received good reception in the country especially upcountry where makuti is not easily available. We continue to get referrals from our clients who refer us to potential clients interested in Makuti Roofing. What makes makuti roofing unique? Regular roofing materials can cost an arm and a leg, but with Makuti, you don't have to break the bank to have a decent shelter over your head. Besides, makuti thatching is traditional roofing that creates a natural roof covering with charm and allure. They are synthetic, authentic and beautiful. They are also versatile and flexible, meeting individual tastes and preferences. Furthermore, makuti thatches have unique thermal and acoustic insulation properties, allowing them to effectively regulate the temperature in cold and warm weather conditions, sometimes even eliminating the need for air conditioning.

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