Jamal Roho Safi, real name Jamal Ibrahim Marlow, is one of Kenya’s most talked-about entrepreneurs. His journey—from a matatu conductor to a multi-millionaire business figure—epitomizes ambition, savvy risk-taking, and relentless hustle. With an estimated net worth of KSh 570 million (around $4 million) as of 2025, his life is a blend of impressive business acumen and headline-grabbing personal drama.
This article delves into how Jamal built his wealth, the ventures that sustain his empire, and the explosive love life that has often thrust him into the public eye.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Jamal Roho Safi – story begins in Kajiado, Kenya, where he was born into a large Muslim family of 14 siblings. Raised in a humble environment, his mother had grand aspirations for him—she dreamed of him becoming a pilot and gave him KSh 400,000 intended for aviation school.
However, Jamal had a different vision. Instead of pursuing aviation, he used the money to buy a second-hand matatu, marking his entry into the transport business and setting the stage for his future empire.
Building a Business Empire
The Matatu Empire
Jamal’s first hands-on experience was working as a matatu conductor in 2009. By 2011, he had become a licensed driver and soon transitioned to owning his own vehicles. His big break came when the government mandated matatus to operate under SACCOs.
Seizing the opportunity, he founded Telaviv SACCO, which eventually grew to include over 60 matatus. Each vehicle paid him around KSh 500 daily, generating a steady cash flow of over KSh 30,000 per day and laying a solid financial foundation.
Diversifying Business Ventures
Jamal’s brilliance lies in diversifying his income streams. Key ventures driving his wealth include:
- Huduma Credit: A microfinance company providing personal and business loans to individuals often excluded by traditional banks.
- Ajira Chap Chap: A digital platform connecting Kenyan job seekers with freelance and employment opportunities.
- Real Estate: Strategic investments in properties across Nairobi, which he either rents out or develops for resale.
Despite his success, Jamal is open about using debt to fuel growth. He has acknowledged having bank loans totaling KSh 320 million, arguing that leveraging credit is essential for scaling businesses.
The Explosive Love Life and Public Drama
Jamal’s personal life has been as dynamic and public as his business career.
- First Marriage with Amira: Jamal married his high school sweetheart, Amira, with whom he has two sons. She stood by him during his early struggling years.
- The Amber Ray Chapter: In late 2020, blogger Edgar Obare exposed Jamal’s affair with socialite Amber Ray. Jamal later introduced Amber as his second wife, a move that deeply hurt Amira, who stated that while Islam permits polygamy, she was devastated to learn about it on social media. This led to a very public “online war” between the two women. Jamal defended his relationship with Amber, stating she changed his life for the better. However, the relationship with Amber ended in 2021, with Amber describing it as “toxic”.
- Current Relationship: As of 2025, Jamal is in a relationship with Michelle Wangari, who is expecting his child.
The dynamics of his relationships have drawn public criticism, with businessman Kennedy Rapudo—who later married Amber Ray—claiming that Jamal failed to provide proper leadership in managing his family.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Jamal’s estimated net worth of KSh 570 million is a testament to his business success. This wealth is distributed across:
His luxurious lifestyle is well-documented. He owns an impressive car collection, including:
- A Range Rover Sport (worth over KSh 10 million)
- A Land Rover Defender (valued at around KSh 18 million)
- A Mercedes-Benz
He is also known for his designer wardrobe, lavish travel, and active social media presence showcasing his affluence.
Conclusion
Jamal Roho Safi’s life is a powerful narrative of rising from nothing—a former tout who dared to dream and execute relentlessly. His journey underscores that with strategic vision, diversification, and calculated risks, extraordinary success is achievable.
While his personal life has been marred by public controversy, it also reveals the human side of a man navigating fame, relationships, and cultural expectations.
Jamal continues to inspire many young Kenyan entrepreneurs, proving that it’s possible to start small and build an empire through pure hustle—a true “roho safi” (pure heart) determination
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