Maisha Mabati is a household name in Kenya, recognized for producing high-quality and affordable roofing materials that have transformed the construction industry. Founded in 2009, Maisha Mabati Mills Limited is a part of Devki Group of Companies, owned by prominent Kenyan businessman Narendra Raval, also known as “Guru.”
Narendra Raval: The Visionary Behind Maisha Mabati
Narendra Raval, EBS, is a Kenyan industrialist who has significantly contributed to the country’s infrastructure and housing sectors. His goal in creating Maisha Mabati was to provide affordable yet durable roofing solutions to the Kenyan population, making homeownership and construction more accessible to a broader range of people. Raval is often referred to as “Guru” due to his leadership and influence in the business community. He has built a reputation for delivering high-quality construction materials, not just through Maisha Mabati but also through other ventures under his expansive business empire.
The Rise of Maisha Mabati
When Maisha Mabati Mills was launched in 2009, it began with the production of galvanized and color-coated steel roofing sheets. These products were designed to be strong, cost-effective, and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions. The company’s focus was on quality and affordability, which quickly earned it the trust of Kenyan homeowners and construction professionals.
Under Raval’s leadership, Maisha Mabati continued to grow, and by 2013, the company had established the third-fastest alu-zinc plant in Africa at Ruiru, Kenya. This state-of-the-art facility allowed Maisha Mabati Mills to produce high-quality alu-zinc and color-coated steel roofing sheets under the brand name Maisha Alu-zinc.
Devki Group of Companies
Maisha Mabati is a subsidiary of the Devki Group, a conglomerate founded by Narendra Raval. The Devki Group includes several other key players in the construction and manufacturing sectors, such as Devki Steel Mills and National Cement Company. Through these ventures, Raval has built a diverse portfolio that contributes significantly to Kenya’s economy and infrastructure development.
The Devki Group is one of the largest privately-owned companies in East Africa, with interests in steel, cement, and construction materials. It has expanded beyond Kenya into regional markets, including Uganda and Tanzania. The company’s mission, driven by Raval, is to provide top-tier construction materials at prices that are affordable for both large-scale developers and individual homeowners.
Contributions to Kenya’s Economy and Beyond
Narendra Raval’s role in Kenya’s economic development extends far beyond Maisha Mabati. Through the Devki Group, he has helped reduce the country’s reliance on imported steel and cement, making construction projects more affordable and boosting local employment. Raval’s businesses employ thousands of Kenyans, and his philanthropic work—particularly in education and healthcare—has earned him widespread respect.
One of the notable achievements of Maisha Mabati is its ability to offer quality roofing materials at competitive prices. This has been made possible through strong relationships with financial institutions like Standard Chartered Bank and Barclays Bank, which have supported Maisha Mabati Mills’ growth. As a result, the company continues to meet the roofing needs of both the local and regional markets, offering durability, functionality, and cost-effectiveness.
Products Offered by Maisha Mabati
Maisha Mabati Mills specializes in a variety of roofing products, including:
- Galvanized Roofing Sheets: Known for their rust resistance and durability.
- Color-Coated Roofing Sheets: These come in various shades, providing aesthetic value to buildings.
- Alu-Zinc Roofing Sheets: Highly resistant to corrosion and designed to last longer in harsh weather conditions.
- Maisha Tile: A popular option that mimics the look of clay tiles but is much more affordable and lightweight.
All these products are designed with the Kenyan climate in mind, ensuring durability and energy efficiency. The roofing sheets are available in different thicknesses (gauges) and lengths, making them suitable for various types of construction projects—from residential homes to commercial buildings.
Narendra Raval’s Legacy
Narendra Raval’s success with Maisha Mabati is just one chapter of his larger impact on Kenya’s business landscape. He has been recognized for his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to philanthropy, receiving multiple accolades over the years, including the Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS) award for his contributions to the country.
Raval’s vision for affordable housing has not only provided countless Kenyans with durable roofing solutions but has also contributed to the larger goal of improving living standards in the country. His dedication to ensuring high-quality products at affordable prices has set Maisha Mabati apart from its competitors and made it one of Kenya’s leading roofing brands.
Maisha Mabati Mills, under the leadership of Narendra Raval and the Devki Group of Companies, has grown into one of the most trusted roofing material manufacturers in Kenya. The company’s commitment to quality, affordability, and innovation has positioned it as a key player in the construction industry, catering to both individual homeowners and large developers.
Whether you are building a modest home or a large commercial structure, Maisha Mabati’s products are designed to meet your roofing needs with durability and style. The company’s continued expansion and investment in cutting-edge technology ensure that it remains a leader in the industry for years to come.
