The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics September 2016 report, estimates that 14.9 million persons are employed by the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) sector. Thus, the sector contributes significantly towards improving social and economic aspects of Kenya and ultimately nurtures large scale employment.
At the Kenyan coast, is a vibrant and intelligent young man – – Alvin Botta. He runs two successful businesses and has managed to have partners and employees.
For Alvin – – His case of missing school fees to complete his diploma in sales and marketing and later being laid off from a security firm turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The call for youths to participate in entrepreneurship training organized by EPTF and KUZA caught his attention and he decided to give it a shot.
It is at the training centre that Alvin nurtured his talent for arts. After the 6 months training and mentorship, Alvin set off to source for funds and partners which ultimately turned fruitful.
East Coast Brand and Botta Art Work were started with an initial capital of kshs 30,000/- . The East Coast Brand focuses on public transport vehicle branding, that is the use of arts or graphic design drawn or painted on vehicles as means of advertising and marketing. On the other hand, Botta Art work engages in primarily painting of portraits of people and art on T-shirts, canvas, wood and walls.
The skills gotten form EPTF ranging from book keeping to sales and marketing has been of immeasurable value. The businesses make a profit of kshs 20,000/- to 40,000/- on a good month. “The training has helped me better my ideas, do business projections and keep good business records.”
Despite the challenges of stiff competition and debt, Alvin forges ahead with both businesses operating on customer referrals and social media marketing. In addition, clients pay retainer fees before projects are undertaken to mitigate and manage debts.
An earnest Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) faithful, Alvin hopes to expand his businesses and utilize his talents to the fullest.
Social and economic transformation is an important aspect to consider and especially if there is to be elimination of poverty and unemployment. The Economic Projects Transformational Facility (EPTF) realizes that the prosperity of a nation happens when efforts are put in place to recognize and build capacity of MSME’s. That way, they are sustained and able to absorb more employees.