Kenya, March 21 -- Bobmil Industries Ltd., a renowned mattress manufacturing company, and Haleon Ltd. are set to cease operations following their dissolution and removal from the register of companies by the Registrar of Companies.
The announcement, formalised in a recent Gazette Notice, marks the end of an era for the two firms, which have been officially struck off under the provisions of the Companies Act.
Bobmil Industries Ltd., a household name in Kenya for over four decades, has been a leading player in the foam and mattress industry, celebrated for its "Lala Salama" brand.
The company's closure comes as a surprise to many, despite its earlier statement on March 18 denying rumours of shutting down and affirming its commitment to continue operations.
Haleon Ltd., though less detailed in public records, is also affected by the dissolution, leaving its stakeholders awaiting further clarification.
The Registrar of Companies, Joyce Koech, confirmed the dissolution in Gazette Notice No. 3388, dated February 14, 2025, citing compliance with Section 58 (5) and (6) of the Companies Act.
While the specific reasons for the dissolution remain undisclosed, such actions typically follow insolvency, voluntary winding up, or operational cessation.
The move has raised concerns about job losses and economic ripple effects, particularly for Bobmil, which employed thousands along Nairobi's Mombasa Road.
Public reaction has been swift, with social media users reflecting dismay and speculation about the economic climate's role in the closures.
The development highlights ongoing challenges faced by businesses in Kenya, as over 130 other companies have reportedly applied for dissolution, citing harsh economic conditions.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.