Damaris Muriithi: Transforming Kenya’s Mobile Spare Parts Industry

:Damaris Muriithi’s road to success was filled with challenges. When her initial imports from Dubai couldn’t meet the growing market demand, she adapted by sourcing from local suppliers, showcasing her resilience and strategic thinking

By Charles Wachira

In the bustling streets of Nairobi, where the vibrant pulse of urban life merges with dreams both big and small, Damaris Muriithi, affectionately known as Dama, has carved her name into the chronicles of Kenya’s entrepreneurial history. 

As the dynamic force behind Dama Mobile Spares, she has revolutionized the mobile spare parts industry, becoming a symbol of resilience and determination for aspiring entrepreneurs across the nation.

Damaris’s journey began in the lush, green landscapes of Kirinyaga, where she spent her early years helping her aunt on the farm. However, destiny had grander plans for her. In 2011, she embarked on a new chapter in Nairobi, drawn by the allure of opportunity. Little did she know, this move would set the stage for her extraordinary rise in the business world.

Upon arriving in Nairobi, Damaris’s first foray into the working world was selling mobile phone scratch cards, earning a modest Ksh 1,500(US$11.67) Yet, it was during this time that she discovered her passion for the mobile industry—a passion that would shape her future endeavors.

A pivotal moment came when her cousin offered her a job at a mobile phone accessory shop on Luthuli Avenue, Nairobi. Although the business eventually folded, Damaris’s resolve remained unbroken. She quickly found employment along Munyu Road,Nairobi immersing herself in the intricacies of the trade. Here, she learned the nuances of buying, selling, and sourcing supplies from overseas, skills that would prove invaluable.

Fueled by her newfound passion and equipped with essential experience, Damaris made a bold decision in 2016: she ventured into entrepreneurship. Leaving behind her job, she set out to build her own business empire in an industry dominated by established players.

The road to success was fraught with challenges. Her initial imports from Dubai fell short of the growing market demand, forcing her to turn to local suppliers. However, her unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction laid the foundation for her future triumphs. Despite narrow profit margins, she prioritized retaining her clientele, setting the stage for her business’s eventual success.

Guided by perseverance, Damaris’s business flourished. She opened multiple branches across Nairobi County, and today, Dama Mobile Spares stands as a testament to her entrepreneurial acumen, employing over 100 individuals and earning widespread acclaim.

Amidst accolades and recognition, Damaris remains grounded, attributing her success to divine providence and an unwavering commitment to her customers. As she navigates the ever-changing tides of business, she emphasizes the importance of adaptability and customer-centricity—principles that continue to steer her toward greatness.

In a poignant moment of triumph, Damaris was honoured at the StarBrands Awards East Africa, receiving the title of CEO of the Year. Her company, Dama Mobile Spares, was also recognized as Kenya’s most preferred mobile spares supplier, a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence.

Standing at the pinnacle of her success, Damaris Muriithi epitomizes the indomitable spirit of the Kenyan entrepreneur. She is a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come, continually redefining the contours of possibility and proving that with courage and determination, anything is attainable.

Keywords:Kenyan Entrepreneurship:Mobile Spare Parts Industry:Resilience and Determination:Customer-Centric Business:Success and Recognition