Kienyeji’s- The name is unique and easy to remember, making it easier for customers to recall and recommend to others as well. Kienyeji’s Store is based in Nairobi, Kenya and they pride themselves as Firebrand Connoisseurs of authentic traditional cooking. they deal in precooked traditional vegetables and other traditional foods. Established in 2014, they take pride in being pioneers in precooking traditional vegetables and in the vast experience they have acquired over the years has enabled them to perfect the quality of their foods. At Kienyeji’s, they say that food is medicine. Inspired by the way our grandparents cooked their food and lived subsequently long lives free from lifestyle diseases, Kienyeji’s seek to promote healthy lifestyles by bringing back forgotten foods while offering convenience to the customer. Kienyeji’s Store brings you the village experience in the city by rekindling your memories on forgotten foods.

Kienyeji’s economic impact to the country’s economic growth.

We can categorize economic impacts in three categories.

1. Direct impact
2. Indirect impact
3. Induced impact

1. Direct impact.

This includes all the projected food and beverage revenues generated from the consumers at kienyeji’s. Direct impact also includes total payroll paid out to employees hired at kienyej’s.

2. Indirect impact.

This includes all jobs and income generated by the business or people that supply goods and services to Kienyeji’s

3. Induced impact.

This refers to economic effects generated when employees and suppliers re-spend their wages on local consumer purchases. This may include paying for transport back home among other uses.

Kienyeji’s is contributing greatly in all aspects seen in the image below.

Image 1: The contribution of local food to sustainable development within a destination (Rand et al., 2003)

1. Attraction enhancement

The consumption of food is generally recognized as one of the essential elements of the tourist experience (Hall and Sharples, 2003: 2). Although food is considered only to appease hunger for some tourists, it also serves as an important part of travel for some other tourists who are motivated to experience different tastes. Tourists’ desire to learn more about the origins of food and their inclination to experience food in person by witnessing the production steps are among the reasons driving interest in local foods.

Local food in tourist destinations is considered attractive by tourists because it is different from everyday food and meals, thus increasing the propensity to spend more money. In this regard, local food is seen as a useful tool for the sustainable development of destinations and the achievement of sustainable tourism experiences.

Kienyeji’s gets both local and international customers. Most of the time, they are customers who walk in to explore and eat ‘new’ food.

Image 2: Tourists at  Kienyeji’s (Image Courtesy of https://kienyejis.com/about/)

2. Agricultural activity.

The intensification of local food products’ production helps towards improving the economic positions of farmers, who form the basis of sustainable local development, and are directly related to the achievement of sustainable development goal. The leading activity of the population in the Republic of Kenya, especially in rural areas, relies on agriculture and support for local development, which also represents the fight against poverty and hunger. However, the integration of agricultural production with the secondary and tertiary sectors is needed, which will ensure a higher degree of marketability of agri-food products. The role of agriculture in the development of society is significant, whether in terms of local development or sustainability of resources. Kienyejis gets most supplies from the local markets. Having people in various areas to get them fresh farm produce, impacts agricultural sector greatly.

3. Job creation and empowerment.

All businesses in the economy are significant drivers of job creation and employment opportunities. They play a vital role in increasing overall employment rates and reducing unemployment rates. This is because they tend to have a higher propensity to hire locally, often providing jobs for individuals within their immediate communities. Kienyeji’s, a medium-sized food outlet has employed chefs, waitstaff, cooks, and cleaners from the local area, contributing to local job growth. It is a significant job creator, employing hundreds of people, especially youth and women.

Image 3. Section of women employed at Kienyeji’s preparing fresh vegetables (Courtesy of Citizen TV)

4. Branding/identity

A brand is powerful and is the core identity of a company that can make or break it. Like any other business in the economy, Kienyeji’s play a significant role in supporting and strengthening local supply chains. This practice not only helps to cultivate a sense of community, but it also reduces transportation costs. The name “Kienyejis” was be a strong brand choice, especially because they are focusing on traditional, free-range and indigenous products.

Kienyeji’s had their logo done and put on LED display locally.

Image 4. Kienyeji’s logo (Image Courtesy of https://kienyejis.com/about/)

Table 1. Some delicious foods at Kienyeji’s.

	Apoth/mrenda.
	Smoked kienyeji chicken stew.
	Kienyeji chicken stew.
	Cow leg stew
	Obambla/shivambla
	Whole kienyeji smoked chicken.
	Fish (tilapia) wet fry.
	Fish (tilapia) dry fry.
	Smoked (tilapia) fish.
	Managu/dek (traditional vegetable)

We would definitely recommend Kienyejis to someone because of the following reasons.

1. Ambiance: The atmosphere and setting Kienyeji’s can create a memorable experience.
2. Cultural Significance: Kienyeji’s has cultural importance and offers a unique opportunity to learn and appreciate different traditions and histories.
3. Quality and Service Food Quality: At kienyeji’s the quality and taste of the food are paramount. Fresh ingredients, well-prepared dishes, and unique flavors makes it stand out.
4. Customer Service: Friendly and attentive service can significantly enhance the overall experience, making visitors feel valued and welcome.
5. Value for Money Affordability: Kienyeji’s Offer good value for the price which is very important. This includes reasonable pricing for the quality of food, services and experiences they provide.
6. Accessibility and Convenient Location: Kienyeji’s is located in Kilimani area. A place that is easy to reach, whether by public transport or personal car.
7. Signature Dishes: Kienyeji’s is known for the best smoked chicken stew, traditionally fermented milk which tend to draw visitors looking for those unique experiences.
8. Eco-Friendly Practices: Kienyeji’s is one place that prioritizes sustainability, such as using locally sourced ingredients or implementing eco-friendly practices, can appeal to environmentally conscious individuals.
9. Ethical Standards: Kienyeji’s treat their staff well and engage in fair trade practices can be more appealing to recommend.

What roles can standardization play in enhancing the effectiveness of small-scale food providers?

Standardization is a powerful tool for small-scale food providers, helping them maintain high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency, which ultimately leads to increased customer satisfaction and business growth.

Standardization can significantly enhance the effectiveness of small-scale food providers in various ways.

Below are some key roles it plays:

1. Enhancing Food Safety

• • Compliance with Regulations: Adhering to standardized food safety practices ensures compliance with local health regulations, minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
  • Training: Standardized safety procedures make training staff straightforward, ensuring everyone knows and follows the same safety protocols.

2. Facilitating Growth and Expansion

• • Scalability: Standardized processes make it easier to replicate the business model, facilitating expansion to new locations or scaling up operations.
  • Franchising Opportunities: With clear, standardized procedures, small-scale food providers can create franchise models, expanding their business reach.

3. Ensuring Consistency

• • Quality Control: Standardized recipes and processes ensure that food quality remains consistent, which helps in building a loyal customer base.
  • Uniform Taste: Consistency in taste and presentation keeps customers satisfied and encourages repeat business.

4. 4. Training and Development

• • Skill Improvement: Standardized training programs help staff improve their skills, leading to better performance and job satisfaction.
  • Consistent Onboarding: New employees can be onboarded quickly and effectively with standardized training materials.

5. Improving Efficiency

• • Streamlined Operations: Standardized procedures simplify operations, making it easier for staff to follow and reducing the likelihood of errors.
  • Time Management: Efficient, standardized processes save time in preparation and service, allowing small-scale providers to serve more customers effectively.

Up next:

ARSO TC on African Culinary Arts, Gastronomy and Food Service Industry; Can we standardize African recipes and dishes?