BACKGROUND, FAMILY, AND EDUCATION.
Mr. Dhanji Raghwani is the esteemed Group Managing Director of the Laxcon Group of Companies. His journey in the construction industry is rooted in a rich family legacy. The Laxmanbhai Construction Ltd was founded 70 years ago in 1953 by Mr. Dhanji’s father, Mr. Laxmanghai Bhimgi Raghwani, who is now 94 years old. Despite lacking formal training, Mr. Laxmanghai began his career as a mason, driven by an unwavering desire to promote construction in Kenya.
Mr. Laxmanghai’s early career included a stint in India, where he initially aspired to be a priest. However, under the guidance of his godfather, he returned to Kenya and laid the foundations for Laxmanbhai Construction Ltd. Initially working as a sub-contractor, Mr. Laxmanghai’s perseverance and vision led to the establishment of a company that has grown significantly over the decades.
The Raghwani family, including Mr. Laxmanghai’s two brothers, formed the first generation to settle in Kenya, with a collective family of eleven children and twenty-three grandchildren. Mr. Dhanji took on the responsibility of mentoring the younger generation, overseeing their involvement in the construction business. This mentorship led to the formation of additional companies, including Laxcon Hardware and Spares Ltd, Aluglass Africa Ltd, and Laxcon Interior Solution Ltd.
Mr. Dhanji stands out as the only child among his siblings to have pursued university education. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying from the University of Westminster in the UK, equipping him with the management skills essential for steering the company towards continued success.
MANDATE.
Laxmanbhai Construction Ltd, a fully-owned Kenyan company since 1953, operates under the Laxmanbhai Construction Group with branches in Kenya, India, Seychelles, and the UK. The company benefits from substantial support from its international counterparts, particularly in procurement of materials, plant, and equipment, ensuring competitive pricing and quality.
Over the years, Laxmanbhai Construction Ltd has demonstrated steady growth, currently managing projects up to Kshs. 6 billion in value.
SPECIALTIES.
Mr. Dhanji specializes as a sub-contractor within the industry, managing three key companies: Laxcon Interior Solution Ltd, Aluglass Africa Ltd, and Laxcon Hardware and Spares Ltd. Each company caters to specific needs within the construction industry:
- Laxcon Hardware and Spares Ltd: Established 28 years ago, it is a retail shop for construction materials.
- Aluglass Africa Ltd: Established 5 years ago, it deals with aluminum and glass.
- Laxcon Interior Solution Ltd: Established 4 years ago, it provides complete interior fit-outs.
These companies offer a wide range of services, including joinery, carpentry, concreting, decking, timber flooring, excavation, formwork, glazing, masonry, metalwork, painting, rendering, roofing, tiling, windows, and doors making.
Mr. Dhanji emphasizes the evolving nature of the construction industry, noting the increasing reliance on specialized subcontractors due to the complexity of modern buildings.
UNIQUE SELLING POINT
Laxmanbhai Construction Ltd is committed to construction technology, innovation, and new construction techniques. Their investment in sophisticated equipment and technology has earned the trust of clients, ensuring effective project execution and timely completion.
MANAGEMENT OF QUALITY CONTROL
Laxmanbhai Construction Ltd has established a quality policy that aligns with the organization’s purpose and context. This policy serves as a framework for setting and reviewing objectives, fulfilling customer, regulatory, and legislative requirements, and continuously improving their management system. The company also adheres to social, environmental, and charitable responsibilities.
FUTURE PROSPECTS.
Mr. Dhanji envisions significant advancements in the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of health and safety. He advocates for vocational training to develop skilled local workers, reducing reliance on imported labor. His company actively supports local graduates, providing them with necessary training and opportunities for advancement.
Mr. Dhanji believes that supporting local contractors is crucial for the country’s progress, highlighting the need for expertise and resources to be harnessed locally.
PROJECTS DONE
- Brookhouse School
- Laxcon Court and Plaza
- I&M Headquarters
- Sarit Centre (Phase 3B)
- Aga Khan University Centre, Nairobi
- Britam Towers
- Vienna Court
- Garden City Residential
- The Hub Karen
- English Point Marina, Mombasa
- Westend Towers on Waiyaki Way
- Tune Hotel, Westlands
- Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel
- Teleposta Towers
- Lonrho Africa
- Aga Khan Academy, Mombasa
- The New Stanley Hotel
- Mombasa Cement Silo
- UNON Office Facility
- Kihingo Village (Waridi Gardens), Kitisuru
- Carrefour at Sarit Centre Shopping Mall
- Carrefour at The Hub Karen
- Carrefour at TRM Mall
- Carrefour at Junction Mall
- Carrefour at Two Rivers
- Shoprite at Westgate Shopping Mall
- Shoprite at Garden City Shopping Mall
- Britam Towers
- Nyayo House
- Telefax Tower
TIPS FOR ACHIEVING QUICK BUSINESS GROWTH.
Mr. Dhanji advises contractors to specialize in specific sectors for higher profitability. He notes the market shift towards subcontracting, which now comprises 70% of the industry, compared to general contracting. He stresses the importance of adaptability and innovation to stay competitive.
He also emphasizes the significance of recycling and proper waste disposal for cost savings and environmental protection. For upcoming contractors, Mr. Dhanji shares his father’s wisdom: “The fear of God and honesty are the foundations of success.”
This profile highlights Mr. Dhanji Raghwani’s professional journey, his family’s legacy, and his vision for the future of the construction industry. It underscores his leadership and commitment to quality, innovation, and local development.