When Kiondo shopping centre in Lanet is mentioned, one will always think of the ‘Kiondo’ bag among the Kikuyu community.

But this is not the case for the centre, as its name is not in any way associated with this bag.

Surprisingly, the centre’s name is derived from an old family bar that was the first one to be established in the area.

The bar by the family name ‘Kiundu’ is said to have belonged to one of the first inhabitants of the area who was from a well off family.

When Mtaa Wangu visited the area to get to understand more concerning the centre, it was revealed that the bar became a landmark.

Most people boarding a vehicle from Nakuru town or Dundori, alighting at the centre, would always tell the tout to stop at ‘Kiondo’.

The famous bar still exists but has noticeably undergone a few renovations with the name no longer visible.

However, the bar is still managed by the family.

The centre that ushers you to the Lanet area is on the highway and just a few meters from the first gate to the Lanet Barracks.

It is said that the land on which the centre sits was owned by white settlers in Nakuru who had designated it to be their shopping centre, but were yet to construct shops on the land.

Peter Njoroge who has stayed in the area since 1968, revealed to Mtaa Wangu that Kiondo area was initially owned by eight family members who had bought the piece of land.

Mr Peter Njoroge a trader at Kiondo shopping centre.

Photo credit: PRISTONE MAMBILI| MTAA WANGU

Njoroge who runs a furniture workshop in the area admits that the centre is now growing into an urban trading centre unlike before when there were countable shops and premises.

He says, before those who bought the spaces could not put up premises as the place was just a parcel of land and no sub-division was allowed.

However, currently the centre has some storey buildings coming up.

“Being next to the military barracks has seen the area experience good security,” said Mr Njoroge.

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Pristone Mambili