Kenyans embraced a culinary delight this Mashujaa Day, turning to Glovo, the country’s leading multi-category delivery platform, to satisfy their holiday cravings. The day, celebrated annually on October 20th to honor Kenya’s heroes, saw a record-breaking surge in demand, with fried chicken taking the crown as the nation’s favorite festive dish.
Fried chicken emerged as the undisputed highlight, with popular options such as Fried Chicken with large chips, Dilliwala Butter Chicken, and Chicken Biryani leading Glovo’s order charts. This preference for hearty comfort food underscores the integral role of culinary indulgence in Kenyan celebrations.
While fried chicken dominated, other international and local favorites also played significant roles. Pizza remained a crowd-pleaser, with Pepperoni, Hawaiian, and Margherita topping the list. Meanwhile, traditional Kenyan dishes like Ugali, Beef Stew with white rice, and Pilau showcased a balanced appetite for both international and homegrown flavors.
Indian dishes saw a notable 5 percent increase in demand, reflecting Kenya’s growing taste for diverse flavors. Dilliwala Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, and Paneer Makhanwala were among the most sought-after items, adding a spicy twist to the holiday celebrations.
Mashujaa Day celebrations extended beyond the usual lunch hours. Glovo reported a 15 percent increase in orders between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., compared to an average Friday, as Kenyans enjoyed leisurely meals. Alcohol orders surged by 29 percent, further illustrating the festive spirit and prolonged revelry
Glovo’s grocery segment also witnessed substantial growth, with orders increasing by 14 percent. Essentials such as tomatoes, onions, white potatoes, bananas, and milk were among the top items, suggesting that many families planned ahead for their holiday feasts. The busiest shopping window was between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., reflecting early preparations for the day’s festivities.
Caroline Mutuku, General Manager of Glovo Kenya, expressed pride in the platform’s role during the national holiday. “Mashujaa Day is a significant celebration for Kenyans, and we’re proud to have been part of their special day by offering fast and reliable delivery services,” Mutuku said. “This year’s record-breaking numbers reflect the increasing trust and reliance on Glovo for both everyday essentials and celebratory meals. We remain committed to providing our customers with the convenience they need while also supporting local businesses across the country.”
Founded in 2015 in Barcelona, Glovo has grown into a pioneering multi-category app operating in 23 countries across Europe, Central Asia, and Africa. Its mission is to create the largest online marketplace, offering users fast and easy access to anything within their city. In Kenya, Glovo continues to expand its footprint, connecting users with restaurants, supermarkets, and retailers.
As Kenyans celebrated their heroes on Mashujaa Day, Glovo played a crucial role in enhancing the festive experience. From delivering favorite meals to ensuring well-stocked pantries, the platform cemented its place as a trusted partner in the country’s evolving digital economy.