This archive report was first published on 3 July 2021.
Naushad Merali, a Kenyan billionaire businessman, has passed away at the age of 70. He was a respected figure in the business world, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic efforts.
According to reports, Merali died on Saturday morning at around 4am. His passing has been met with sadness from the business community and beyond.
ANC Party Leader Musalia Mudavadi expressed his condolences, saying, 'I am deeply saddened by the passing away of Naushad Merali. A renowned and distinguished international entrepreneur, industrialist, and philanthropist. Our prayers are with Zarin, Yasmin and Sameer Merali.'
Merali was born on 2 January 1951 in Nairobi, Kenya. He co-founded the Kenyan mobile service provider Kencell with French media giant Vivendi. He also attended Highway Secondary School in the suburbs of Nairobi.
As one of Kenya's leading industrialists, Merali has made significant contributions to the country's commercial development over the past 30 years. His businesses have expanded throughout East Africa, leaving a lasting impact on the region.
According to the Forbes ranking of Africa's richest people, Merali was the third richest man in Kenya and 48th richest man in Africa, with a net worth of $370 million as of November 2015.
Group Chief Technology Innovation Officer at Liquid Intelligent Technologies Kenya, expressed his condolences, saying, 'We are very sad to hear of the passing on of Naushad Merali this morning. Our thoughts are with Sameer Merali and the rest of the Family. May he rest in peace.'
