Quite a well-known name in Kenya’s cargo and logistics industry, Japhet Murori M'Athuo, who often prefers to be called Matano, is the Managing Director of Delta Cargo Connections. This is a certified clearing and forwarding company in Kenya with more than fifteen years of experience in domestic and international cargo handling in a country known for its rich flower and horticultural industries. Japhet’s journey began in quite a humble way. It was driven by passion and a keen interest in logistics. His success story tells of the very essence of growth and grit, somewhat like some of the items he delivers hundreds of miles to their destinations, fresh and in perfect condition.
Japhet's Journey Begins Right at the Airport Ground
Japhet started his career in the cargo section at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), where he gained hands-on experience in handling both perishable and dry cargo for both import and export. This foundational experience at one of Africa's major aviation hubs exposed him to the world of international logistics. Here, timing is everything, and precision is vital. At JKIA, he learned the art and science of cargo movement—working with airlines, government agencies, and freight handlers.
Always bustling with activity and a constant flow of goods and people from around the world, the airport environment, Japhet says, provided him with vital insights into the logistics industry. He saw directly how horticultural produce and flowers from Kenya's different regions were carefully handled to maintain their freshness during international transport. His understanding, then, also included other products that he now deals with, like pharmaceuticals and medical equipment. This would later prove instrumental in building his expertise in handling both perishable cargo, like horticultural exports that form such a vital part of Kenya's economy, and other cargo as well.
Building Expertise Through Multinational Experiences
Later, Japhet joined multinational logistics companies, rising through the ranks while refining his skills in clearing, forwarding, and international logistics operations. This phase of his career was crucial in developing a comprehensive understanding of global supply chains that would later define his style. Working with established international firms also exposed him to best practices, cutting-edge technologies, and the complex regulatory frameworks that govern international trade.
During his tenure with these multinational corporations, he developed a deep appreciation for the importance of reliable logistics in global commerce. He understood that every shipment, whether it contained fresh flowers bound for whichever market or essential pharmaceuticals, represented someone's livelihood and, often, critical needs. This became the basis of his later business philosophy.
The experience with multinational companies also provided him with a global perspective on logistics challenges and solutions. He learned how different markets operated, understood the nuances of various regulatory environments, and developed the kind of strategic thinking that would later help him navigate international freight forwarding.
Founding Delta Cargo Connections
Japhet made the bold decision 16 years ago to launch his own company; thus, Delta Cargo Connections was born. While the transition from employee to entrepreneur is never easy, his extensive experience in the logistics industry positioned him well for this challenge. So, like a skilled horticulturist starting their own nursery, he understood that success would require not just technical expertise but also business acumen, customer focus, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
His founding of Delta Cargo Connections marked something more than just a business venture; it was the peak of years of learning, observing, and understanding the needs of the market. Japhet recognized that there was space for an enterprise that could combine the efficiency of international operations with the personal touch and local knowledge that smaller, dedicated firms could provide.
In establishing the logistics outfit, he set out to create a business that would draw from his extensive experience in handling both perishable and dry cargo. Delta Cargo Connections' focus on comprehensive logistics solutions, from air and sea freight to road transport, essentially reflects Japhet’s knowledge that modern commerce requires flexible, integrated approaches to cargo movement.
One of the company's notable specializations is in the handling of fresh horticultural products, including flowers, fruits, and vegetables destined for international markets. This expertise is particularly relevant to Kenya's thriving flower industry, where maintaining freshness and quality during transit is key. Japhet's knowledge of the unique requirements of perishable goods has made Delta Cargo Connections a reliable partner for exporters who depend on dependable logistics to maintain the integrity of their products from farm to different hubs and then to markets.
Growing Stronger With Each Step
Today, Delta Cargo Connections is much more developed than it was some years ago. Its growth is a reflection of its managing director’s idea, just as much as his ability to adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs. The company's development mirrors the growth of Kenya's export economy, particularly in the horticultural sector. Just as Kenya's flower industry has grown to contribute significantly to the national economy, Delta Cargo Connections has played its part in ensuring that inputs, materials, horticultural products, and flowers reach their destinations in perfect condition.
Importantly, their expertise in handling fresh cargo has made them an invaluable partner for flower exporters who depend on maintaining the cold chain from farm to market. Plus, their services span the full spectrum of logistics needs, from road transport solutions to air freight clearing and forwarding and sea freight operations; a comprehensive approach that shows Japhet's understanding that successful logistics requires seamless integration across all modes of transportation.
Adapting to Support Different Logistics and Building a Network of Trust
An area where Delta Cargo Connections has particularly excelled is in horticultural exports, specifically flowers, fruits, and vegetables. This specialization is particularly significant given Kenya's place as a major global flower exporter, with the industry contributing billions to the national economy. Japhet’s experience in handling temperature-sensitive goods ensures that flowers reach their destination fresh and intact, maintaining the quality that has made Kenyan flowers renowned worldwide.
Also, the horticultural sector's reliance on efficient logistics cannot be overstated, with most of Kenya's flower exports traditionally moving by air freight through JKIA. Establishments like Delta Cargo Connections have been instrumental in maintaining the country's competitive edge in international markets, even as the industry increasingly explores sea freight options to reduce costs and environmental impact. Japhet's company has also adapted to support all these evolving needs.
To sum it up, the success of Delta Cargo Connections’ operations is perhaps best illustrated by the testimonials from long-term clients, who talk positively of the outfit. This speaks to the personal touch and keenness that have characterized Japhet's approach to this line of business.
Aside from clearing and forwarding, Delta Cargo Connections also provides consultancy in warehousing, cargo transportation, and import and export, in a model that shows modern logistics requires more than just moving goods from point A to point B, but also comprehensive support throughout the entire supply chain. Furthermore, the company's global reach is impressive, guaranteeing seamless access to global markets for different clients, regardless of whether they export Kenya's world-famous flowers or import essential goods for local markets.
Innovation and Adaptation in a Changing World
Throughout his operations, Japhet has established great adaptability and flexibility in changing market conditions. The logistics industry has undergone significant transformation over the years in line with technological advances, changing trade patterns, and evolving regulatory requirements. Yet, Delta Cargo Connections has navigated these changes, just in the same fashion while maintaining an obligation to quality service. This has been crucial in building a robust business that can adapt to dynamic market demands and economic conditions. Looking forward, Japhet continues to focus on innovation and customer service distinction, understanding that the logistics industry's future belongs to those who can combine traditional expertise with modern solutions. His vision for his company remains keen on integrity as well.
More than 1,200 clients have already chosen Delta Cargo Connections as their preferred freight partner. Since Kenya's logistics industry is in a phase of sustained development, adapting to new challenges and opportunities while exploring more sustainable and cost-effective shipping methods, Japhet’s company remains supportive of the industry’s different developments and transitions, while maintaining high standards of service. He is one of the individuals who continues to play a key role in shaping the country's logistics industry in whichever way they can.
