From Humble Beginnings to Nairobi Drinks — The Inspiring Story of Founder Benjamin “Carson” Macharia
By Benjamin “Carson” Macharia, Founder of Nairobi Drinks
Hello, I’m Benjamin Kungu Macharia, though most people know me as Carson — the founder of Nairobi Drinks, Kenya’s most trusted online platform for premium alcohol delivery.
I was born in Laikipia County, Kenya, in August 1991. My father was a carpenter, and my mother a peasant farmer. Growing up as the ninth child in a family of ten, life wasn’t easy — but it taught me discipline, humility, and the importance of working hard for every dream.
How My Academic Journey Shaped My Mindset
I started off as an average student in a small local primary school. In 2001, while I was in Class 4, my elder brother graduated from the University of Nairobi with a degree in Engineering. Watching him walk across that stage completely changed how I viewed education. That moment lit a fire in me — the realization that education could change lives.
From then on, I gave my studies everything. I rose from position 36 to 3, then 2, and finally 1 — holding the top spot for the rest of my primary school years. That passion for excellence has guided me ever since.
After completing primary school, I earned a place at Mary Mother of Grace Boys, a national Catholic secondary school, after topping the admission interviews. Despite the financial struggles, my eldest brother promised to support my education, and that promise carried me through.
In 2010, I sat for my final exams while unwell but still scored an impressive B+, with my lowest subject also being a B+. A year later, I joined the Multimedia University of Kenya to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (Statistics) and Computer Science.
The Beginning of My Tech Journey
After graduating in 2015, I worked with NHIF and Telkom Kenya, where I gained valuable experience in IT and systems management. But deep down, I always wanted to create something that combined technology, innovation, and impact.
In 2016, I founded Carson Technologies, an IT firm specializing in digital marketing, web and software development, cloud computing, and IT consultancy. That experience opened my eyes to how digital platforms could revolutionize everyday services — including how people buy and receive products.
The Birth of Nairobi Drinks
In 2017, I noticed the rapid growth of e-commerce in Kenya, but one sector remained largely underserved — premium alcohol delivery. Many Kenyans wanted a reliable, fast, and trusted way to buy drinks online. That gap inspired the birth of Nairobi Drinks — a company built on trust, speed, and customer satisfaction.
What started as a small idea has now grown into one of Kenya’s largest and most reliable drinks delivery companies. Today, Nairobi Drinks employs so many people and delivers premium beverages — including whisky, wine, champagne, vodka, gin, and beer — within 20 minutes anywhere in Nairobi.
We’re proud to be recognized as the best online alcohol delivery service in Kenya, serving thousands of happy customers across homes, hotels, events, and safaris.
Education, Growth, and Global Perspective
In 2022, I joined Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) to pursue a Master of Science in Computer Systems, focusing on cybersecurity, IoT, and intelligent systems.
Later, in 2024, I expanded my academic journey internationally by joining UET Italia in Rome, where I pursued an MBA in Global Hospitality and Tourism Management, completing it successfully in 2025. These experiences deepened my understanding of leadership, business innovation, and global service standards — qualities that now define how I lead Nairobi Drinks.
Family and Inspiration
Beyond work, I’m a proud father of two, and my wife is currently pursuing her MSc in Public Economics at the University of Vienna in Austria. My family keeps me grounded — they remind me daily why I work hard to build a brand that stands for trust, excellence, and passion.
A Message to Our Customers
When you order from Nairobi Drinks, know that you’re not just buying a bottle — you’re supporting a Kenyan dream built from the ground up. You’re part of my journey and part of the Nairobi Drinks family.
From Laikipia’s dusty beginnings to building one of Kenya’s top online drinks platforms, my story is proof that with determination, vision, and heart, anything is possible.
Thank you for being part of our journey. 🍷
Warm regards,
Benjamin “Carson” Macharia
Founder & CEO, Nairobi Drinks
