Nizar Juma’s Orbitsports – an African success story

Economic Scene; Trade Obstacles Among Africans By Jane Perlez – Published: August 24, 1990

NAIROBI, Kenya— On the edge of Nairobi’s industrial park sits one of the most visible manufacturing ventures in Kenya. Founded after independence in 1963 by the Jumas, an Asian family who came to Kenya from Uganda, the company, Orbitsports, makes soccer balls, rugby balls – indeed, all kinds of balls – dart boards, boxing gloves, and a wide range of sports clothing and leisure wear. Its soccer balls were used in the recent World Cup matches in Rome.

”From here we send to France, Italy, the United States,” said Nizar Juma, the managing director.

Orbitsports is an African success story. But it is also a telling example of why trade among African countries is extremely difficult. Orbitsports has grown because of its exports outside the continent.
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Mr. Nizar Juma, Non-Executive Director

Mr. Juma, 64, is a Kenyan businessman. He is probably most well known for his company, Orbitsports Limited, manufacturers of Adidas products. He joined the DTB Board in August, 1997. Mr. Juma was Chairman of the Aga Khan Health Services in Kenya for almost seven years.

He is currently the East African Regional Chairman of the IPS Group of Companies. He is also the Chairman of The Jubilee Insurance Group of Companies in this region. He holds a joint honors degree in Economics, Law and Accountancy from the University of Wales. He was awarded the Silver Star by the President of Kenya for outstanding service to the nation.

http://www.nytimes.com/1990/08/24/business/
http://www.diamondtrust-bank.com/DTB202007AnnualReport.pdf