Availability of fresh water to most Mombasa residents is quite a challenge.
This has created a gap in the market and created an opportunity for fresh water vendors.
John Musyoki a resident of Likoni is a known water supplier that has been in this venture for almost seven years now.
"I started this business in 2011 when I first arrived in Mombasa. My passion for entrepreneurship could not allow me to seek employment but instead, it drove me towards being my own boss," proudly said Musyoki.
"My day starts early in the morning at around 5am. I have to get up at that time in order to avoid getting a long queue at the water point located at Mount Sinai where one jerrican costs Sh5. Afterwards, I load them up in the 'mkokoteni' and start doing my rounds at about seven o'clock," he continued.
One cart has the capacity to hold 20 jerricans. Each goes for Sh40. In a day, Musyoki sells 3-60 jerricans of water which is equivalent to three carts. After paying the 'mkokoteni' owner Sh150, his helper Sh200 and deducting his other expenses, he manages to pocket around Sh 1,700 per day.
Like all other businessmen, Musyoki face challenges. His major obstacles occur during the rainy season. The muddy roads and pools of stagnant water makes it hard for him to easily maneuver the cart.
"Thanks to this venture, I have relocated my family to Mombasa from Makueni and both my two kids are in private schools. Any type of work has the ability to provide a stable income once a person puts enough effort in it," he happily concluded.
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