20-year-old Richard Mekenye has gone against all odds to excel in a female-dominated business.
The firstborn in a family of four owns a vegetable kiosk in Kisii, which has earned him the nickname ‘baba mboga’.Mekenye ventured into the business in 2017 shortly after completing his secondary education, as his parents could not afford to pay for his college education.The young entrepreneur started the business with a capital of Sh3,000, which he used to buy a few vegetables and set up a kiosk in Fort Jesus estate.With his day starting at 11am and ending at 9pm, Mekenye has managed to maintain a large customer base, which makes him stand out in the business.
Richard Mekenye at his vegetable kiosk in Fort Jesus estate. [Photo/ Stephen Mwaniki]
The proud business owner says he has managed to save over Sh10,000 in a fixed savings account.
"I save more than Sh300 a day in my mobile savings account. The rest of the money goes to my daily upkeep and my restocking budget,” said Mekenye.
He says competition is his biggest challenge as the business is popular in the region. He, however, notes that his unique service and etiquette is what makes his customers keep coming back.
Mekenye says he also faces discrimination especially at Daraja Moja market where he buys his stock, with a section of traders mocking him for running a business that is mostly associated with women.
He, however, notes that his courage and determination is what keeps him going.
"The youth should understand that the success of a business is determined by one's mindset. Creativity and courage are the two key attributes that one requires to run a successful business,” said Mekenye.
Determined to further his education, Mekenye sets aside a big chunk of his savings to raise fees for his college education.
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