Zimmerman

Fondly known as Zimma by Nairobi’s youth, it got its name from pioneer industrialist Karl Fritz Paul Zimmerman. The deceased industrialist ran Zimmerman International which operated a taxidermy factory for Game Trophies (mounting the skins of animals for display). In 1977, after 33 years of raving success, Zimmerman Ltd was given months to close shop following the ban on hunting. The ban effectively meant the end of the business empire – but the estate that developed on its land still carries its name. The late Ferdinand Marcos, the President of Philippines, Jomo Kenyatta’s State House also sourced its game trophy decorations from Zimmermann, as did other presidents, kings, queens and princesses. The estate has a near 24-hour economy, mainly because of the 24-hour transport system and the composition of the residents. Many singles live here, besides new jobbers who have to survive on meager first salaries.