Inside Kisumu's Milling Giant: The Story of United Millers and the Shah Brothers
In Kenya, ugali is more than just food — it's a way of life. This deep love for the staple has created a booming demand for maize flour, and in Kisumu, no brand is more iconic than Jambo Maize Meal. Behind this household name is United Millers Limited, a company deeply rooted in Kisumu's history and community — and led by two local brothers: Sunil Shah and Kamal Shah.
The Shah Brothers – Kisumu Born and Bred
Sunil Shah and Kamal Narshi Punja Shah are proud sons of Kisumu. Born and raised in the city, both attended Kisumu Boys High School and have dedicated their lives to building a business that serves the Lakeside region and beyond.
In 1977, Sunil Shah founded United Millers Limited with a vision to supply affordable, high-quality maize flour to Nyanza. At the time, modern milling facilities were non-existent in the region. His bold step marked the beginning of what would become one of the largest milling operations in western Kenya.
"Kisumu is Kenya's third-largest city, yet back then it lacked a modern milling facility. The growing population and rising demand for flour inspired me to act. Today, over 40 years later, it's been a challenging but incredibly fulfilling journey," Sunil Shah in Africa Outlook Magazine
More Than Just Maize Flour
United Millers isn't just about maize. The company manufactures a wide range of Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCGs) including:
- Jambo Maize Meal - The flagship product
- Tropicana Baking Flour - For all baking needs
- Crisco and Rahisi Cooking Oil - Kitchen essentials
- Toyo Bar Soap - Affordable hygiene
- United Bread & Soft Buns - Fresh daily
- U-Mix Mandazi Flour - Perfect for snacks
Headquartered in Kisumu, the company employs over 800 people and is a key buyer of locally produced wheat, processing around 100,000 tons annually.
"We've always believed in supporting the local economy — from farmers to suppliers to the wider community," Sunil Shah
Tech-Powered Milling
United Millers has embraced technology in a big way. Their facility boasts Swiss Milling Machinery, ensuring top-tier product consistency and efficiency. Every batch — from raw grain to packaged flour — is tested in a state-of-the-art lab to meet high quality standards.
"Automation has helped us reduce energy consumption, minimize downtime, and produce better quality products. It's also improved working conditions for our staff who are now using world-class tools," Sunil Shah
Beyond Business – Community Impact
United Millers is also a committed corporate citizen. The company sponsors local sports including the KYFA League and the United Western Kenya Golf Championship. They support schools, orphanages, and food programs — all part of their ongoing mission to give back to the region that raised them.
United Mall – A Landmark in Kisumu
Venturing into real estate, the Shah brothers also built United Mall, a modern shopping hub along the Kisumu-Kakamega Highway. Spread over 12,000 square meters, the mall features:
- Carrefour Supermarket
- Two cinemas
- Food courts & restaurants
- A gym, kids' playground, and function rooms
- Over 40 retail shops and 250 parking spaces
It hosts both local and global brands like Java House, LC Waikiki, KFC, Pizza Inn, Goodlife Pharmacy, and more — making it a one-stop destination for Kisumu residents.
They also own prestigious United Oasis Estate, one of the most expensive places to live in kisumu where the Kisumu County Govt rented Jack Ranguma a unit as his official residence while he was Kisumu govenor to mention but a few.
From mill to mall, the Shah brothers have transformed Kisumu's economic and social landscape. United Millers is more than a company — it's a symbol of homegrown success, community pride, and a vision built right here in the heart of the lakeside city.