Madafu now more popular in middle and top estates
Coconut water, locally known as madafu, synonymous with the Coast region is slowly gaining popularity in Nairobi’s middle and high end estates.
The drink, made from green coconut, is being used by Parklands, Westlands and South C residents.
Madafu is extracted from young coconuts and it contains potassium and other minerals.
Although claims have been made that the drink is good for the kidneys, this has not been scientifically proven.
Traders involved in madafu business are making good profits selling the fruit at Sh50 compared to the purchase price of Sh20.
Mr Daniel Njathi says he receives orders for more than 6,000 coconuts in a week.
“We are doing well as we usually receive orders in bulk especially when people have parties. They prefer madafu to soda,” he said.
Mr Njathi said he decided to venture into the madafu business after realising its market in Nairobi was untapped.
“I lived in Mombasa for eight years and learnt the trade before coming to Nairobi,” he said.
Availability
A woman who identified herself as Jane and a resident of South C said she loved madafu and bought at least five coconuts each day.
“I first took madafu during my visit to Mombasa five years ago and I loved it. I discovered it was being sold here only recently,” she said.
Another trader Hezbon Maina said madafu had become popular due to its availability.
Mr Maina said he knew about madafu 20 years ago after an encounter with coastal people living in Nairobi.
Mr Maina said he was optimistic that business will continue to grow as more city residents embrace the drink.