Let's Cook Kenyan Meals: Online group that's feeding the diaspora

Tell us about your brand and what makes it unique

My brand is Let’s Cook Kenyan Meals (LCKM), a global community of food lovers from Kenya and beyond who enjoy cooking and experimenting with recipes from different cultures. Our members embrace global cuisines, infusing them with a distinctly Kenyan touch. LCKM members are passionate about food and eager to learn new techniques using locally sourced ingredients.

What inspired you to venture into the African foods business?

My love for cooking began at a young age, nurtured in my mother’s kitchen. She loved to cook, and I picked up her culinary skills by observing and helping out. Over time, this passion grew. I began cooking at family gatherings, and the positive feedback I received made me consider turning it into a business. I therefore started my catering business, cooking only on weekends and during public holidays, because I was employed as a banker.

When did you formally start your business, and how has the journey been?

It all started in December 2013 as a side hustle. Initially, I struggled to give it the attention it required because of my job. However, by September 2015, the LCKM community had grown to 78,000 members. I decided to resign from the bank and focus on my culinary business. As the group expanded, so did my customer base.

It has been a remarkable journey. In 2018, I was recognised as one of 46 Facebook Community Leaders globally. This international recognition helped raise the profile of LCKM across social media platforms. Today, the group boasts over 2.5 million members.

How did you secure your first international client?

The client was a member of the LCKM group. Through consistent posting and showcasing my work, I built trust with the community, and that trust led to international orders.

How do you ensure food shipped abroad remains fresh?

Once prepared under strict hygienic conditions, the food is carefully packed and frozen to preserve freshness.

Who are your overseas clients, and why do they prefer your food?

Most clients are Kenyans in the diaspora or people travelling to visit friends and relatives abroad. While similar food items may be available where they live, they often find that my method of preparation and rich flavour profiles are uniquely satisfying. My pricing is competitive. We also receive orders from diaspora clients who want food delivered to their loved ones in Kenya for special occasions.

How much does it cost to ship a chapati abroad compared to production and shipping costs?

We don’t ship directly yet. At the moment, orders are sent as parcels accompanied by trusted travellers.

What’s your average income in a good month?

The business fluctuates greatly, so it’s difficult to give a fixed monthly income. However, most orders fall within the range of US$100 (Sh12,925) to $200 (Sh25,850).

What’s your biggest challenge?

Volatility in local food prices and fluctuations in the exchange rate make it hard to quote consistently for international orders.

Parting shot?

Follow your passion. In an online business, success depends on being trustworthy, consistent, prompt in communication, and quick to resolve client complaints.

How can people find you?

You can find us on Facebook under Pamellah Oduor and Spice Land. We’re also on Instagram as Let's Cook With Pamke and on TikTok as Let's Cook with Pam.