Walking in Nakuru Town a person is bound to be struck by the numerous car wash businesses that have sprung up.
Within the suburban estates, many car wash businesses are owned by youth groups mostly facilitated by area MCAs.
“When we approached our MCA for support he suggested that we find a spot within Shabaab and he not only gave us the car wash machine, he also provided water. The best part is that we were allowed to use a strategic place for our business,” said one of the young men in this business.
Their car wash is situated just outside the Shabaab open ground in Shabaab ward where the area MCA Kamau Githengi facilitated the group.
Another MCA who has helped young people set up car wash businesses is Flamingo MCA Moses Gichangi.
“My area is one of those with the highest number of young people. It also has a lot of youth who are unemployed and since I was elected they have been approaching me for help. I have helped many register their groups and to empower them even further, I have helped a few set up car wash businesses,” said Gichangi.
According to Patrick Mutua who runs the business in Langalanga, it does not take much to set up.
“The hardest part is getting access to an open space but once you get that you’re ready to go. Labour is readily available and the customers are there,” revealed Mutua.
Mutua added that a lot of Nakuru residents buy vehicles both for personal and business use and this provides them with business.