Dubai-based luxury travel service provider, Miftah Concierge, co-founded and led by African hoteliers Oscar Kato and Pascaline Nkwe, has officially launched operations in Kenya, marking a significant step in its ambitious expansion strategy across the African continent.
Miftah Concierge is set to inject an initial capital of $2 million to ensure a smooth transition and a robust start for its Kenyan unit. Under the guidance of co-founders Kato and Nkwe, along with UAE-based innkeeper Illyas Bafouri, the company aims to establish a strong foothold in Kenya while laying the groundwork for further expansion beyond the Kenyan borders.
Kato expressed his vision for the luxury travel company, stating: “Concierge service is fundamentally about people. Our goal is to facilitate a life of limitless luxury for our clients. Miftah Concierge was created to bring my vision to life. My dream was to create the UAE’s first home-grown lifestyle management company—one built on the culture and style for which this country is world-renowned. I wanted to open a world of limitless living for my clients and provide a service and experience that cannot be found elsewhere.”
Nkwe, a leading African hotelier and co-founder of Miftah Concierge, shed light on the decision to expand in Africa, emphasizing the continent’s potential as a hub for investment, climate action, and natural resources. She noted that Africa offers unparalleled opportunities for both leisure and investment, thereby presenting a new dimension of limitless lifestyle to luxury clients.
In a strategic move, Miftah Concierge has appointed Saruni Lelaona as the CEO to lead the company’s pan-African operations from Nairobi. Lelaona brings a wealth of experience and an impressive background in operational management, finance, business development, and relationship management.
The expansion into Kenya represents a significant milestone for Miftah Concierge, as it aims to cater to the discerning luxury travel clientele across the African continent. With a robust team and a clear vision, the company is well-positioned to bring a world of luxury experiences to its clients while enhancing its footprint in the travel market.
