Naresh Malde, the founder of Pwani Oil Products Limited — one of East Africa’s most successful manufacturers of edible oils, soaps, and detergents — has passed away.
Malde died on Saturday, October 25, 2025, in Mombasa.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, the company confirmed the death of its founder, describing him as a visionary leader whose influence and passion will forever shape Pwani Oil’s identity.
“It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of our esteemed founder, Mr. Naresh Malde,” the statement read.
“This loss is deeply felt throughout our organization, as Mr. Naresh played an instrumental role in the establishment and growth of Pwani Oil Products.”
Pwani Oil Founder Naresh Malde Dead
The company stated that his vision, dedication, and leadership have been integral to the success of Pwani Oil Products Limited.
“His contributions to the success and development of Pwani Oil Products will always be remembered and celebrated,” the company added.
“We extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to his entire family. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader and mentor, let us also reflect on the enduring legacy Mr. Naresh leaves behind.”
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Former Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala described Malde as a committed advocate of business growth.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Naresh Malde, the founder of Pwani Oil. His vision, hard work, and commitment to local enterprise transformed Pwani Life into one of Kenya’s most trusted homegrown brands,’ he said.
“My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Pwani Oil fraternity. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of entrepreneurs along our Coast and beyond.”
Beyond the boardroom, Malde was known for his philanthropic spirit, quietly supporting education, healthcare, and social initiatives across Kenya’s Coast region.
How Ramesh Malde and His Brothers Built the Pwani Oil Empire
Ramesh Malde, together with his brothers, the late Anil Hansha and Naresh Malde, established Pwani Oil Group in 1981.
Pwani Oil Group is a consumer goods company headquartered in Mombasa, Kenya. The name Pwani derives from the Swahili word for ‘Coast,’ reflecting the location where the first factory was established.
The company initially began as a coconut oil production plant before transforming into the Jomvu Pwani Oil Products factory, where it produced corn and sunflower oils. In 1985, it shifted to palm oil refining and adopted the name Pwani Oil Group Company.
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The family-owned business has since grown into one of East Africa’s leading manufacturers of edible oils, soaps, and detergents.
It produces popular cooking oils under the brand names Fresh Fri, Fresh Fri Garlic, Fresh Fri Ginger, Salit Cooking Oil, Salit Vegetable Oil, Popco Cooking Oil, Mpishi Poa, and Fry Mate.
Pwani Oil also manufactures a wide range of skincare, bathing, and antibacterial products, including Detrex Germ Protection Soap, Detrex Sanitizers, Diva Antibacterial Beauty Soap, Diva Glycerine, Sawa Family Soap, and Sawa Liquid Hand Wash.
Other products from the company include Ushindi, White Wash, White Wash Extra, Popco Bar Soap, Ndume Bar Soap, and Rainbow Washing Powder.
The three brothers, who were of Indian descent, founded the company with a vision to provide quality products that promote healthy cooking and hygienic living.
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