Naivas Supermarkets, Kenya’s leading retail chain, has announced a major leadership transition as part of its long-term growth strategy.
In a notice dated October 7, 2025, the retailer revealed that David Kimani Mukuha will be stepping down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He will be succeeded by Andreas von Paleske, the current Chief of Strategy, effective November 1, 2025.
“Naivas Supermarkets is pleased to announce a leadership transition as part of its long-term growth strategy. Effective 1st November 2025, Andreas von Paleske will succeed David Kimani as CEO,” the company announced.
According to the statement, von Paleske has been part of Naivas for eight years, during which he “played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategic direction during a period of rapid expansion.”
The retailer praised the joint stewardship of David Kimani and Andreas von Paleske, under which Naivas grew to more than 100 stores nationwide and solidified its market leadership.
Kimani, one of the founding members of Naivas, chose the company’s 35th anniversary as the symbolic moment to “pass the baton.” He will, however, remain active in the business alongside family members Peter and Charles Mukuha, continuing the company’s legacy.
From Family Shop to National Retail Giant
Naivas traces its origins to 1990, when founder Peter Mukuha Kago and his children opened a modest family store. The business gradually expanded, becoming one of Kenya’s most dominant supermarket chains with nearly 100 outlets nationwide.
Under Kimani’s leadership, Naivas underwent a transformation that attracted international investors. In 2020, the Mauritian-based IBL Group acquired a 31.5% stake in Naivas for $61.5 million, followed by another 8.5% stake in 2022 worth $31.5 million. Despite these sales, the Mukuha family retained significant influence, cementing their place among Kenya’s wealthiest retail families.
“Having achieved several landmark milestones in the past few years, and with a strong leadership team in place, I could not think of a better opportunity than our 35-year anniversary to pass on the baton to Andreas,” said outgoing CEO David Kimani.
Arnaud Lagesse, Chairman of Naivas International, lauded Kimani’s contributions, describing him as a cornerstone of the company’s success.
“David’s role laying the foundations of one of Kenya’s corporate success stories is truly commendable. With Andreas, we have the right leader to take the business to even greater heights,” Lagesse stated.
The Rise of Naivas
Naivas made its Nairobi debut in 2001, opening its first branch along Ronald Ngala Street. Over the following years, the retailer rapidly expanded to Machakos, Donholm, Komarock, and other urban centers.
By 2016, Naivas introduced Kenya’s first food market-style store along Kiambu Road, revolutionizing supermarket shopping in the region. By 2019, it had launched Naivas Express, catering to customers seeking convenience and speed.
Despite facing family succession disputes following the death of founder Peter Mukuha in 2010, Naivas overcame internal challenges to remain Kenya’s most trusted retailer.
Today, the supermarket operates close to 100 branches, a mix of supermarkets, food markets, and express outlets, serving millions of customers across the country.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to delivering value and driving innovation.
“Naivas remains dedicated to serving customers, partners, and communities. This transition reinforces our focus on sustainable growth and operational excellence,” the statement concluded.