At the heart of Umoja Three Estate along Kangundo Road, Kamau Kamaa 'wa Tududuu' has become a household name owing to his car yard selling hatchbacks popularly known as kadudu among Kenyans.
However, behind the successful multi-million venture - Shaq Motors Company- is the story of hard work, toil and patience.
Speaking during an interview with Sikika Road Safety on Thursday, March 16, Kamaa - Kamau, his real name - revealed that he started working in the transport sector as a kamegera - individuals tasked with filling matatus with passengers.
He noted that he used to earn as little as Ksh10 - a move that pushed his desire to move up the ladder and own a car.
Kamaa indicated he still wanted to complete school as he had posted good results in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).
"After raising some money I was able to raise money and enrol at the University of Nairobi for a Bachelor of Commerce (BCOM) course," he stated.
However, while pursuing his degree course, he also worked as a tout, landing a job with a Sacco in the city.
Nonetheless, while working as a tout, he met friends who were car dealers and incorporated him into the trade. At first, he worked as a broker and earned Ksh10,000 for each car sold.
"One friend of mine had a car-selling yard, and I was intrigued to know how much he was earning and therefore inquired and join the industry. At first, I started as a broker and earned commissions.
"Being a broker is quite difficult because someone can shortage you and you cannot do anything because there is no written contract," he revealed.
After being able to save, Kamaa asserted that he bought a Mazda Demio at Ksh390,000 and later sold it for profit after making improvements to the vehicle.
He added that he settled for dealing with hatchbacks, given that they are in demand and can be sold faster.
"I did some improvements to it and finally sold it for Ksh550,000 after 3 weeks. I target small-sized vehicles because they can be sold in a very short time and the target for the profit is also attainable," he stated.
Over time, given his business model, he was able to own a yard with over 25 vehicles and currently has five employees.
