In July 2023, Mwangi’s* employer; a real estate company stationed in Nairobi, opened a branch in Nakuru. This was amongst chain of companies that thronged the town after its elevation to a city.

Mwangi amongst other employees attached in the company’s headquarter was asked to pioneer the branch in Nakuru.

A bachelor, Mwangi was happy to relocate from the Capital’s “fast paced” life and high cost of living amongst others.

Upon setting foot in Nakuru, a Keg-cum- Jaba Joint, where he could grab a drink and chew his Muguka each evening after work, topped his search list. Mwangi, a middle-aged party animal was also on a quest for “Love.”

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“Main reason why people flock Keg Joints is the cheap, quality drinks and good music available here,” says Wanjiku a Keg Joint Waitress in the city.

Mwangi was happy to find a cool place along the famous KANU Street.

Week after week, he’d sit at the dimly lit joint, gazing across the room in search of that special connection.

He'd heard tales of chance encounters, whirlwind romances, and even long-term relationships that had blossomed amidst the cacophony of Keg joints.

But for Mwangi, they had proven to be more of a heartache than a heartthrob haven.

As he sipped on his craft beer, Mwangi couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment. The Keg joints were abuzz with male revelers, but the women he had also hoped to meet seemed elusive.

It wasn't for lack of trying – Mwangi had donned his best attire, rehearsed witty pick-up lines, and even joined in on some spontaneous dance-offs to catch a lady's eye.

Three months amidst the jovial atmosphere and clinking glasses, fate had other plans. Mwangi complains that his hopes for “Love” have remained elusive.

“I’ve barely seen a “Skirt” at the joint, I only come here to raspy voices of fellow men singing along to roots. This is a Bachelors Den,” laments Mwangi.

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On the flip side Kim*, a born and bred resident of Nakuru appreciates Keg Joints as a place where he can spoil his boys on a low budget. He tells off Mwangi to go to the major clubs if he wants “Love."

A bachelor's search for love in Kanu street's Keg joint

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