Linnet Kathambi, a successful businesswoman from Kikuyu, Kiambu County, is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and perseverance. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, she has risen to the top of the timber and real estate industries in Kenya, and serves as an inspiration to many.
Born and raised in Imenti Central, Meru County, Linnet attended Mwirine Primary School before joining Kinjo Girls High School for her secondary education. After completing her studies, she faced a difficult period, during which she struggled to find work and make ends meet.
“l did not go to college. After high school, life was tough. I got a job back in Meru where I worked as an attendant at a timber yard. The business went under and that is how I lost the job.
“Being a go-getter, l decided to join my sister who lived in Nairobi. My objective was to’ tarmac’ in an effort to make ends meet,” Kathy recounted.
Undeterred, she moved to Nairobi, where she began hawking goods she bought from Kamukunji in the Zimmerman estate where she lived.
Despite the challenges she faced, Linnet remained determined to achieve her goals.
Subsequently, Kathy crossed paths with Moses Ng’ang’a, who would later become her spouse, and they tied the knot in 2011. The following year, they relocated to Kinoo, situated in Kiambu county. Together, with their combined savings and support from Moses, they established an open-air timber yard in Kikuyu Town, which they named Sung Timber and Products. Following several months of operation, the business started to flourish.
The business started with a single pickup truck, but has since grown to include several trucks that supply building and construction products to various parts of the country.
One of the biggest challenges Linnet faced was the ban on timber production in Kenya several years ago. However, she refused to let this setback defeat her, and instead, she started importing timber from neighboring countries such as Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, and Zambia.
“My biggest turn around happened when timber production was banned in Kenya some years ago. I thought outside the box and started importing from Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, and Zambia. The demand for timber was more than supply, and l seized the opportunity,” Kathy stated.
“I even landed a few government tenders, major projects on low-cost housing,” she added.
Linnet’s success has not been limited to the timber industry. She and her husband have also ventured into real estate, launching the Homes by Sung project, which features furnished apartments (Lyn’s Stays) and homes that are nearly complete.
Additionally, she is the proud owner of several luxurious cars, including a Ford Ranger pickup and a Mercedes Benz.