Masrur Cafe and Lounge opens second branch in Kisumu

By Peter Ochieng

Masrur Cafe and Lounge has opened the second branch in Kisumu, about 6 years after entering the Lakeside city's hospitality market.

The first branch in Mowlem, along the Kisumu-Nairobi highway was initiated in 2017, while the second branch is located in Kamas area, along Accra road, downtown Kisumu.

Speaking during launch of the second branch on Monday, Sharrif Ousman Omar, the director said the latest move takes to nearly 80, the number of people they have directly employed.

He said Kisumu's cosmopolitan status makes it ideal for business to thrive. "Kisumu has become a cosmopolitan city. That means the people of this great city are receptive," he said.

He called for unity of purpose among members of the business community in Kisumu.

"We need to work together as the business community. We need to be cohesive. If we are not cohesive, we cannot go anywhere. There is a saying in my community (Somali), which states that one hand cannot clap."

In addition, the director stated that the move to open a second branch was occassioned by some of their clients travelling all the way from downtown to Mowlem for their favourite dishes.

The cafe has been praised as disability friendly, with counters not being too high or too low.

Nancy Matara, nominated Member of the County Assembly (MCA) in Kisumu who represented chief guest, Kisumu County women representative Ruth Odinga, added wait on the issue of members of the business community in Kisumu forging a united front, irrespective of tribe or religious differences.

She thanked the management for creating internship and employment opportunities, through opening of the second branch.

On his part, Andrew Lihasi, Masrur Cafe and Lounge manager said they are up to the task of offering high quality services at both ends.