This archive report was first published on 3 July 2021.
Naushad Merali, the chairman of Sameer Group, has passed away at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit.
According to a statement by the secretariat of the Shia Ithna Ashri Jamaat, Merali's burial will be held on Saturday, July 3, with the family requesting that Covid protocols be adhered to firmly.
"It is the family’s request that Covid protocols be adhered to firmly hence, only immediate members of the family and those assisting with the burial proceedings to attend. The family thanks you for honouring this request," the statement read.
With an estimated wealth of $370 million in 2015, Merali was ranked as the 48th richest man in Africa by Forbes that year.
Throughout his illustrious career, Merali founded Kencell, which later became Airtel, and served as its chairman until 2013. He also chaired the Sameer Group, named after his son.
One of Merali's most notable business ventures was the purchase of the Firestone US stake in Firestone East Africa in 1985, which he rebranded as Yana Tyres and later floated on the Nairobi Stock Exchange, making a significant fortune in the process.
Philip Etale, ODM Director of Communications, was among those who paid tribute to Merali's remarkable life and achievements.
