THIKA, Kenya, Aug 24 – Java House has opened a second outlet in Thika as the town expands its commercial and residential base and moves closer to attaining city status.
The new outlet at Shell Makongeni is the restaurant chain’s 111th branch in East Africa and comes two years after it opened its first Thika branch.
Java House Africa Chief Operations Officer Naima Hassan said the expansion was driven by Thika’s growing population, commercial activity and demand for dining and social spaces.
“We are witnessing a new phase of urban growth in Thika, with a rapidly expanding population, growing residential and commercial developments, and increasing demand for more places for people to meet, eat and spend time together,” Hassan said.
“As the town moves closer to attaining city status, we are proud to grow alongside Thika in response to the changing needs of the community and the town’s growing importance as a commercial hub,” she added.
Thika has a population of 284,727, according to figures presented to the Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations during consideration of the town’s city status application.
The town has a strong industrial and services economy, supported by its connection to Nairobi through the Thika Superhighway and railway, as well as road links to northeastern Kenya and the Central Highlands.
Hassan said Thika’s growth had also created demand for spaces where residents could work, meet and socialise.
“Beyond buildings and infrastructure, urban growth is about how people experience and interact with their city. We play a role in that experience by creating welcoming spaces where people can come together,” she said.
“We first came into Thika in 2024, and the town received us with open arms. Now we are returning for our second branch in what will soon become a city. We are proud to be part of Thika’s growth and being part of its story going forward,” she added.
Thika’s economy has expanded beyond its traditional industrial base, with growth in education, financial services, retail and other businesses contributing to a growing urban population.
Java House said the new outlet forms part of its wider expansion strategy targeting high-growth urban centres across Kenya.
