Vimal Shah
Vimal Shah, an accomplished Asian-Kenyan businessman, holds the prestigious CEO position at Bidco Oil Refineries. As the largest manufacturer of edible oils in East and Central Africa, Bidco Oil Refineries has garnered immense recognition under Vimal’s leadership. Beyond edible oils, Bidco Oil Refineries boasts an extensive product portfolio, encompassing detergents, soaps, baking powder, canola oil, and other edible oils.
Vimal Shah is also a highly regarded entrepreneur, mentor, and esteemed industrialist in Kenya, which is the largest economy within the East African Community.
Early Life, Education and Contributions
Vimal Shah is happily married to Manda Shah, and together, they form a solid and supportive partnership. The couple is blessed with a wonderful son named Soham Shah, born in 1998, who undoubtedly brings joy and pride to their lives.
Shah was born in the picturesque town of Nyeri, Kenya, where his journey as a trailblazing entrepreneur began. He pursued higher education at the United States International University, Nairobi Campus, where he diligently honed his skills and passion for business. In due course, Vimal graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Finance from the prestigious United States International University – Africa.
He is highly regarded as a captivating speaker and a valued mentor in the fields of Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Manufacturing. Vimal’s expertise has taken him to various corners of the globe, where he has delivered inspiring talks and shared his insights.
He has been actively involved in various influential roles within Kenya’s business community. His contributions extend beyond his speaking engagements. Notably, he has served as the Chairman of the East African Business Council, the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA).
Shah has been an esteemed member of the 3 GF (Global Green Growth Fund) Advisory Board and has served as the former Chairman of prominent organizations like the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) and the East African Business Council (EABC). Presently, he holds the position of chairmanship in the Mkenya Daima Initiative, an organization dedicated to promoting peaceful coexistence for the advancement of Kenya’s economic growth and prosperity. In these esteemed positions, he has played a crucial role in shaping policies and initiatives that drive economic growth and development in the region.
Shah’s outstanding achievements have been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious First Class Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS) in 2011, bestowed upon him by former President Mwai Kibaki. This accolade is the highest national honour, a testament to Vimal’s exceptional contributions to his country and society.
Vimal Shah’s Impact on BIDCO Africa
Hand in hand with his father and brother, Vimal Shah played a pivotal role in building the business empire known as BIDCO Africa. During his tenure as CEO, he skillfully steered BIDCO Africa through various challenges and opportunities, guiding the company to new achievements and accomplishments.
In 2017, Vimal Shah decided to take a step back from the day-to-day operational aspects of BIDCO. However, his continued commitment to the company and his profound understanding of its intricacies led him to assume a more strategic role as the board chairman.
From its humble beginnings to becoming an African business powerhouse, his contributions have been instrumental in shaping the company’s legacy and impact on the region’s economy. As the current board chairman, Vimal Shah’s influence remains at the heart of BIDCO Africa’s continued growth and success.
As of today, BIDCO Africa proudly holds its position as one of East Africa’s largest companies and fastest-growing manufacturers of domestic consumer products.
Accolades and Mentorship Efforts
In 2014, Forbes Magazine named Shah one of the richest people in Africa. Still, it made a notable update to its list of Africa’s 50 richest individuals, removing Vimal Shah from the list. Instead, his father, Bhimji Depar Shah, was included in the ranking. This change was made in response to “new information” that Forbes had acquired during their assessment.
While Vimal Shah’s recognition on Forbes’ list may have changed, his contributions to BIDCO Africa’s growth and success remain integral to the company’s achievements. The Shah family’s collective efforts and dedication have been instrumental in shaping BIDCO Africa into the powerhouse it is today.
Since mid-2017, Vimal Shah has been enthusiastically engaged in mentoring and empowering small and medium-sized businesses across Kenya, East Africa, and the broader continent through his blog.
In his blog, Vimal Shah opens up about his life as an entrepreneur in Africa, sharing candid anecdotes and valuable lessons from his entrepreneurial journey. Through his blog, Vimal Shah extends his influence beyond BIDCO Africa, reaching out to entrepreneurs from diverse sectors and regions.
