Ndung'u hustles to success

Eric Ndung'u made a choice to start his own business and he has no regrets, writes G-Pange Pulse writer Ken Oguoko

Meet the cool young multimillionaire Eric Ndung’u. His blackberry rings minutes into the interview. With linen trousers, a short-sleeve shirt and strong scent cologne, he has all the signs of a successful businessman written all over him.

Ndung’u looking happy with his achievements in business. [PHOTOS: KEN OGUOKO]

It wasn’t always rosy for this 33 year old. Armed with a Diploma in Journalism from Kenya Polytechnic University, Ndung’u hit the tarmac searching for employment to no avail. He narrates how he sat alongside other wannabe artistes on the stairs leading to the Kenya National Theatre.

"Getting auditions was hard and many a times we had to seek for the ten bob bus fare back home."

But with time things started looking up and with friends, he started Fanaka Arts.

Using savings from the theatre business, he began importing motor vehicle spare parts.

"Back then few people understood the concept of wiring money overseas and waiting for a couple of months for the shipment. I capitalised on that and made some money."

Ndung’u then diversified into real estate. Today he boasts of rental bungalows in Ngong.

Ndung’u credits his business success to a breakthrough in 2000 when he produced his first play, The Burdens. He ploughed back his earnings into more productions including Siku Njema. With additional income from the TV series Wingu la Moto he was set for bigger things. He also runs a series of boutiques importing fashion wear from Dubai and other places. Today, his business empire is worth over Sh10 million and growing.

He admits there is no easy business, "You’ve got to take the risk. Hustle when young, enjoy when old." He says.