She Business
Naom Monari’s App Disrupts Elderly Home Care in Kenya
Bena Care is bridging this gap by providing supportive and clinical care to chronically ill patients in low-income areas. The main focus is rural Kenya, where a family member may require long-term care, necessitating another family member to step up and play a caregiving role
By Charles Wachira,
Naom Monari, 30, is the founder of Bena Care Ltd., an award winning social enterprise located in Kenya that provides clinical and physiotherapy care services to patients inflicted by life threatening illnesses from the comfort of their homes.With the clients , disproportionately drawn from the country’s elderly caste.
The eureka moment leading Naom to think of starting the social care service happened while she was working as a nurse student at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital, based in central Kenya in 2016.
Then she realised the medical facility was facing challenges of bed availability and the situation was further exacerbated by patients receiving non-urgent medical care but were occupying beds.
“ Imagine some of the patients in the wards were simply receiving mundane but necessary services such as wound dressing , bathing or simply taking drugs to manage a condition.While others who were facing life threatening infections had been abandoned and were in limbo, with no bed, apparently available for them,” says Naom.
One day while she was doing her routine rounds in a ward she came across a patient who had a diabetic infected foot and who happened to have hogged a lot of time on a hospital bed.
She approached his son, who happened to be registered at the hospital as his nearest of kin and made a proposal to him.
“ I can take care of your father while he’s home based but at a fee,” he told the son.
The rest, as they say is history, for the idea turned to be seminal as word got round that patients suffering from non-life threatening diseases could receive compassionate,reliable, clinical and supportive care from the comfort of their homes.
And in 2017 , she officially registered BENA Care Limited , with the brand name coined from her now eight year old daughters’ name Beata and hers, Naom.
The Organisation, which has a tagline that reads ‘Healthcare at Your Doorstep’ has to date attended to an estimated 6000 patients who are also offered the opportunity of purchasing homecare equipment on the cheap, for in essence in many instances they re-purchase the medical contraptions from former users but with a caveat that the equipment has been well-maintained.
It’s standard practice for the care-giver to sign contracts with clients, that guarantees the nurses are licensed and possess a certificate of good conduct , provided by the local police constabulary. There is also an indemnity insurance cover signed , in the event, a nurse misconducts themselves.
“So as to protect our nurses , we insist that they document everything they do while attending to a patient , so that in the event of a court case cropping up the organisation has something tangible to fall back to as a defence,” says Naom.
Fatima Ali Omar, 69, had been in and out of hospital since early 2021.She was admitted at a local private hospital here in Nairobi , “ while she was very sick from a lung infection” says Lucky Omar, 40, her daughter.
“ But I could tell that she was not receiving the full attention that she was requiring and I was getting frustrated.Someday while I was in the hospital, I googled for home care hospital services that were located within Nairobi.And I got several organisations but in the end I was convinced Beta Care had what , as a family we were searching for,” says Lucky, who is a business lady based in Eastleigh,located East of the Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD),which happens to be one of Africa’s biggest retails markets that hosts, the Business Bay Square Mall, boasting 130,000 square metres , making it the largest mall within the East African region..
“ BETA Care provides live-in carers who are constantly monitoring the progress of a patient.They create an enabling environment that allows members of a family to pursue their day-to day pursuits with having anxiety their patient is receiving perfunctory service.They also provide one aspect that a lot of caretaking organisations lack, namely dignity for a patient, for the ailing have to be bathed , taken to the washroom and so on.And the BETA care nurses provide these delicate services diligently,”says Lucky, who unfortunately is still mourning her mother who died mid this May after being under the watch of BETA Care nurses for one and a half years.
Enter Ali Omar, 72.
He was afflicted by a stroke in 2020.And in his daughter’s telling , Ali went on to suffer a spinal injury which deteriorated with time as he ostensibly recuperated at a local hospital here in Nairobi and the hospital fee skyrocketed to Ksh 2 million (US $ 14,430) in today’s exchange rate.
“ As a family we were stressed , that was a lot of money, yet dad’s was not getting any better.That is when somebody told us about BETA care, and we gave the organisation a try.And, honestly , the services are fantastic, dad has since become much better , for he can digest food now, as opposed to the past, when he could not and the cost has been halved,” says Fatima Ali Omar , 28, the daughter.
Mr Ali Omar, 72.
If you google to find out how many home care based medical facilities exist in Nairobi alone, one will discover they are a multitude.
Kenya, happens to be a lower middle income country, with an estimated population of 52 million people. In 2022, 17 percent – that is over 8.9 million people – were living under extreme poverty, mostly in rural areas, according to Statista, an online portal providing data on the global digital economy, industrial sectors, consumer markets, public opinion, media and macroeconomic developments.
The portal further shows that an estimated 7.8 million Kenyans in rural enclaves lived on less than $1.90 ( Ksh 263 ) daily, a figure that was 6.5 times higher than that recorded in urban regions.However, the poverty incidence had since declined compared to 2020.
Says Naom, “ Bena Care is bridging this gap by providing supportive and clinical care to chronically ill patients in the low income areas.With the main focus being rural Kenya, where a family member may be in need of long term care , necessitating another family member to step up and to play a caregiving role.”
Kenya’s healthcare delivery system is pluralistic with a 50%-50% split between public and private healthcare providers, who are organised into four tiers, namely community, primary care, county referral and national referral hospitals.
“ We have improved our efficiencies by setting up a healthcare technology app @ benacare, which is a digital platform that geomaps nurses and physiotherapists drawn from across the country, who then take care of patients from the comfort of their homes,” says Naom who bootstrapped the idea of setting up BENA Care to fruition .
The Online platform also links families in need of homecare appliances to families possessing used equipment.
“ We are planning to replicate this model we are using here in Kenya to other African countries in future.But for now we have a lot of territory to cover here in Kenya for our nurses are found in seven out of the 47 counties found in Kenya,” says Naom who was the winner of the Waislitz Global Citizen Disruptor Award, a $50,000 prize given to an applicant who has created measurable impact in an innovative way that disrupts the existing systems that allow for extreme poverty to persist in 2024
Keywords:Bena Care Ltd Kenya:Home healthcare services Nairobi:Naom Monari founder:Physiotherapy and clinical care Kenya:Waislitz Global Citizen Disruptor Award 2022
She Business
Chebet Ng’ok: Founder of Harriet Botanicals, Empowering Wellness
Harriet Botanicals embodies Chebet Ng’ok’s mission to make indigenous wellness accessible to everyone. Her journey shows how personal struggles can spark entrepreneurial success. “I never imagined my pain would bring me here,” she reflects. “But now, I’m proud to help others live healthier, pain-free lives.” Chebet’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and staying connected to her heritage—valuable lessons for any aspiring entrepreneur.
Discover how Chebet Ng’ok’s Harriet Botanicals uses indigenous herbs to transform reproductive health, helping women and men live pain-free, healthy lives.
Chebet Ng’ok, the Founder and CEO of Harriet Botanicals, took a deeply personal challenge and turned it into a thriving business, bringing indigenous Kenyan remedies to the forefront of the wellness industry.
What started as a search for relief from severe menstrual pain led Chebet to discover the healing power of local herbs.
Today, her company is empowering women and men alike through natural products while promoting better reproductive health.
From Financial Powerhouse to Entrepreneur
Chebet’s journey into entrepreneurship was far from typical.
A highly successful financial manager and consultant, she spent over 15 years living in London, where she obtained an LLB in Law with a concentration in Commercial Law from the London School of Economics and an LLM in International Banking and Finance.
Her illustrious career saw her work with some of the world’s largest financial institutions, including JPMorgan Chase, the UK Financial Services Authority, and Goldman Sachs. She even held positions as an independent consultant and an East Africa Partner at Dwyka Projects and Equinox Global Consultants.
However, behind her professional success, Chebet was grappling with debilitating menstrual pain that impacted her life and career.
“When I finished my education and started working, I had a serious challenge with my menstruation—a lot of pain, agony, painkillers, and frequent visits to doctors and gynecologists,” she explained in a 2021 interview. Desperate for relief, she tried everything from juice fasts and yoga to various painkillers, but nothing seemed to work.
Discovering Indigenous Remedies
It wasn’t until Chebet returned to Kenya that she discovered the transformative power of indigenous herbs.
Her journey into alternative medicine began with a recommendation from a family member.
A herbalist uncle from Webuye gave her a traditional remedy that, for the first time, alleviated some of her pain. Later, at her father’s funeral, a woman introduced her to Kipsigis herbs, which provided the first completely painless menstrual cycle Chebet had experienced in years.
This revelation inspired her to research further into indigenous remedies from the Keiyo, Marakwet, and Kipsigis communities.
“When I experienced a painless period for the first time in my life, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly powerful,” Chebet recalls. She began sharing the herbs with friends, one of whom was about to undergo a hysterectomy due to severe menstrual pain. The success stories spread quickly, with Chebet’s social circles buzzing about the benefits of these natural remedies.
Filling a Void in Kenya’s Wellness Market
Harriet Botanicals was officially launched in 2017 to formalize the distribution of these indigenous remedies, focusing initially on women’s reproductive health.
“We realized there was a huge gap in the market for locally sourced, natural solutions to common health issues like menstrual pain, infertility, and digestion challenges,” says Chebet.
As word of mouth spread and demand grew, Harriet Botanicals expanded its product line to cater to both men and women, offering remedies for issues like low libido and immune support.
Chebet made it her mission to ensure that these products were accessible to all Kenyans, opening outlets in major cities and towns across the country.
Overcoming Challenges and Building a Business
Starting Harriet Botanicals was not without its challenges. Despite her background in finance, Chebet faced an entirely new set of hurdles in the health and wellness sector.
“Convincing people to trust indigenous remedies was tough. Many believed that imported products were more effective,” she explained.
Funding was another major obstacle. Chebet initially relied on personal savings and small contributions from family and friends. She didn’t have access to large-scale investment, but through determination and a commitment to quality, Harriet Botanicals slowly gained a loyal customer base.
“I believed in the power of the product, and I knew that if we kept reinvesting back into the business, we could grow sustainably,” she said.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Chebet shares some valuable lessons for others looking to start their own businesses.
“First, you have to believe in your product. If you’re not convinced, no one else will be,” she advises. She also stresses the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
“There were times I doubted whether this business could work, but I never gave up. You have to be prepared for setbacks and keep pushing forward.”
Chebet also emphasizes the need for market education.
“Our biggest challenge was getting people to trust natural, locally made remedies. But once we focused on educating consumers about the benefits of our products, we began to see a shift.”
Lastly, she advises entrepreneurs to start small and grow organically.
“You don’t need a lot of capital to start. What’s more important is that you have a clear vision and a product that people need.”
Voices of Beneficiaries
The impact of Harriet Botanicals has been far-reaching, with many customers sharing their stories of relief and improved well-being. Ann Wambui, a loyal customer, speaks about how the products have changed her life
: “I had severe menstrual cramps for years. Since using Harriet Botanicals’ products, I’ve experienced pain-free cycles and can finally go about my day without interruption.”
James Njoroge, who struggled with digestive issues, shares a similar experience:
“I started using their Moringa tea for digestion problems, and it’s been a game-changer. I feel healthier and more energetic.”
A Future Rooted in Wellness
Today, Harriet Botanicals stands as a testament to Chebet Ng’ok’s vision of making indigenous wellness solutions accessible to all.
As the company continues to expand its product range and reach, Chebet remains committed to her mission of promoting better health through the power of nature.
Her story is a powerful reminder of the potential for personal challenges to inspire entrepreneurial success. “I never thought my pain would lead me to this,” she says. “But now, I’m proud to be helping other people live healthier, pain-free lives.”
Chebet’s journey is one of resilience, innovation, and staying true to one’s roots—lessons that any entrepreneur can take to heart.
Keywords: Harriet Botanicals: Chebet Ng’ok: Indigenous remedies: Reproductive health: Natural wellness
She Business
Tehmeena Manji: Elevating Kenya’s Tea Industry with Passion
Tehmeena Manji’s journey with Muthaiga Tea Company is a powerful testament to how passion, education, and perseverance can make a meaningful impact on Kenya’s tea industry. Her dedication to quality and sustainability establishes a benchmark for others, inspiring the next wave of entrepreneurs in the nation. Through her innovative approaches, Tehmeena is not only influencing the future of tea in Kenya but also ensuring that the legacy of this essential industry continues to flourish.
Tehmeena Manji’s story is one of passion, determination, and a commitment to quality, perfectly illustrating the vibrant tapestry of Kenya’s tea industry.
As the founder of Muthaiga Tea Company, she has carved out a niche in the competitive tea market by combining her expertise with innovative practices.
Born in 1989 in Nairobi, Tehmeena’s fascination with tea began at a young age, evolving from a curious child to a renowned tea sommelier and entrepreneur.
Educational Foundation
Tehmeena’s academic journey took root at St. Mary’s School in Nairobi, where she developed a keen interest in culinary arts and agriculture.
Her pursuit of a degree in Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Nairobi, which she completed in 2011, provided her with a solid foundation in understanding the complexities of food production and quality control. This background would become invaluable as she embarked on her entrepreneurial path.
The Birth of Muthaiga Tea Company
Tehmeena officially launched Muthaiga Tea Company in 2017, driven by a mission to provide high-quality, ethically sourced tea for both local and international markets.
Recognizing Kenya’s status as one of the largest tea producers globally, she saw untapped potential in premium tea products.
Starting with an initial investment of KSh 1 million (approximately $10,000), Tehmeena sourced high-quality tea leaves from smallholder farmers in Kericho, an area known for its rich soil and favorable climate for tea cultivation. She prioritized sustainable farming practices, ensuring her suppliers adhered to ethical and environmentally friendly methods.
A Snapshot of Muthaiga Tea Company
Since its inception, Muthaiga Tea Company has witnessed remarkable growth.
By 2023, the company reported an annual revenue of approximately KSh 50 million (around $450,000) and employed around 25 full-time staff while collaborating with over 100 smallholder farmers.
Headquartered in Nairobi, with sourcing operations in Kericho, Muthaiga Tea Company offers a diverse portfolio of over ten different brands, including the signature “Muthaiga Classic” blend, flavored teas, and herbal infusions.
Building a Unique Brand
Tehmeena’s passion for tea led her to pursue further education in tea tasting and blending, culminating in a professional course as a tea sommelier in Sri Lanka in 2018.
This knowledge proved crucial as she crafted unique blends that set Muthaiga Tea Company apart.
In 2019, the company launched its first line of premium teas, including “Muthaiga Classic,” which quickly gained popularity among tea connoisseurs, praised for its rich flavor profile and high-quality leaves.
Innovative packaging designs that emphasized the premium nature of her products further enhanced the brand’s appeal. Muthaiga Tea gained traction in the local market, with sales increasing by 150% in its first year, leading to the expansion of its product line to include flavored teas and herbal infusions by 2020.
Recognition and Challenges
Tehmeena’s dedication to quality and sustainability resonated with consumers, leading to her products appearing in upscale hotels, restaurants, and specialty stores across Kenya.
In 2021, Muthaiga Tea Company was recognized as the “Best New Tea Brand” at the Kenya National Tea Awards.
This accolade validated her efforts and facilitated international distribution, allowing her to export products to Europe and North America.
However, challenges emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, as global supply chain disruptions impacted her ability to source tea leaves.
Tehmeena demonstrated resilience by pivoting to online sales and developing a direct-to-consumer platform, allowing customers to purchase tea directly from the company.
This strategic shift helped sustain the business during the pandemic, leading to a doubling of online sales by 2022, with a significant percentage of revenue coming from international markets.
Attributes of a Successful Entrepreneur
Reflecting on the essential attributes for success in business, Tehmeena emphasizes resilience, passion, and adaptability.
“You need to have resilience. It’s the ability to bounce back from challenges that sets successful entrepreneurs apart,” she notes.
She also admires the late Prof. Wangari Maathai, the renowned environmentalist, for her commitment to sustainable development, stating, “Her legacy encourages us to consider our responsibility to the planet.”
Future Aspirations
As of 2023, Tehmeena continues to lead Muthaiga Tea Company with a vision to expand into the global market while promoting sustainable practices within the tea industry.
She advocates for fair wages for farmers and aims to launch workshops educating consumers about tea appreciation and the art of tasting.
Kenya’s Tea Legacy and Economic Impact
Muthaiga Tea Company’s success reflects the broader significance of tea in Kenya, where the country ranks third globally in tea production after China and India. Kenyan tea is highly rated for its quality, sustainability, and diverse varieties.
With exports generating approximately KSh 140 billion (around $1.2 billion) in 2022, tea is a vital contributor to Kenya’s economy, providing employment to over 600,000 smallholder farmers and funding community development projects in tea-growing regions.
In summary, Tehmeena Manji’s journey with Muthaiga Tea Company exemplifies how passion, education, and perseverance can lead to significant contributions to Kenya’s tea industry. Her commitment to quality and sustainability sets a standard for others, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs in the country. Through her innovative practices, Tehmeena is shaping the future of tea in Kenya, ensuring that the legacy of this vital industry continues to thrive.
Keywords:Tehmeena Manji: Muthaiga Tea Company: Kenyan tea industry: Sustainable tea practices: Tea market exports
Explore Dr. Catherine Nyongesa’s inspiring journey as Kenya’s first female radiation oncologist, sharing her insights on entrepreneurship and cancer care.
By Charles Wachira
Early Years and Education
Dr. Catherine Naliaka Nyongesa Watta stands as a trailblazer in Kenya’s medical field, renowned as the country’s first female physician specializing in radiation oncology.
Born in 1970, Catherine’s journey toward becoming a medical pioneer began with a deep-seated passion for healing and a resolute determination to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients.
After completing her secondary education at Misikhu Girls Secondary School,Bungoma County in the mid-1980s, Catherine pursued her dream of medical training.
She enrolled at the University of Nairobi’s prestigious School of Medicine, where she excelled academically, graduating at the top of her class in 1995.
Career Beginnings and Vision for Change
Following her graduation, Catherine embarked on a dedicated career path in oncology.
She completed her specialization in radiation oncology through rigorous training both locally and internationally, earning accolades for her exceptional clinical skills and dedication to patient care.
Her experiences working in various healthcare settings across Kenya exposed her to the harsh realities faced by cancer patients, including limited access to advanced treatment options.
Driven by a vision to enhance cancer care in Kenya, Catherine founded the Texas Cancer Centre in Nairobi in 2003.
The centre quickly gained recognition for its state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive approach to cancer treatment, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s healthcare landscape.
Entrepreneurial Challenges and Successes
Establishing the Texas Cancer Centre was not without its challenges.
Catherine faced initial skepticism from traditional healthcare institutions and financial organizations wary of investing in specialized medical facilities. Undeterred, she leveraged her extensive network within the medical community and secured initial funding through a combination of personal savings, strategic partnerships with local investors, and loans from development banks committed to advancing healthcare infrastructure in Africa.
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Catherine emphasizes the importance of resilience and strategic planning in overcoming obstacles.
“As a woman entrepreneur in the healthcare sector, I faced numerous challenges, from securing funding to breaking through gender barriers. Each challenge reinforced my commitment to providing world-class cancer care in Kenya.”
Insights on Successful Business Practices
Dr. Nyongesa’s experience in building a successful healthcare institution has equipped her with valuable insights that she eagerly shares with aspiring entrepreneurs.
- On Resilience and Adaptability:
- “In entrepreneurship, challenges are inevitable. The key is to be resilient and adaptable. When faced with obstacles, I remind myself that every setback is an opportunity to learn and innovate.”
- On Building a Strong Team:
- “You cannot do it alone. Surround yourself with a team that shares your vision and values. A strong team is crucial for navigating the complexities of running a business, especially in healthcare where collaboration is vital.”
- On Financial Management:
- “Understanding your finances is non-negotiable. As a business owner, I ensure that I have a clear grasp of cash flow, budgeting, and financial forecasting. This knowledge empowers me to make informed decisions and avoid pitfalls.”
- On Patient-Centered Care:
- “At the core of my business philosophy is a commitment to patient-centered care. A successful healthcare business is built on understanding and addressing the needs of patients. Their satisfaction drives referrals and growth.”
- On Innovation and Technology:
- “Embrace technology and innovation. In today’s fast-paced world, being at the forefront of medical advancements not only enhances patient care but also sets your business apart from competitors.”
- On Networking and Partnerships:
- “Building relationships within the industry is essential. Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, organizations, and even competitors to enhance your service offerings and expand your reach.”
Advice on What to Avoid as an Entrepreneur
Catherine also emphasizes critical pitfalls to avoid as an entrepreneur:
- On Ignoring Market Research:
- “Never underestimate the importance of market research. Avoid making decisions based solely on assumptions. Understanding your market and customer needs is vital to your business’s success.”
- On Neglecting Work-Life Balance:
- “As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to become consumed by your business. However, neglecting work-life balance can lead to burnout. Prioritize self-care and make time for your personal life.”
- On Avoiding Risk:
- “Taking calculated risks is part of entrepreneurship. Avoid the fear of failure; instead, embrace it as part of the journey. Assess the risks and rewards, but don’t shy away from making bold moves when necessary.”
- On Lack of Communication:
- “Communication is key. Avoid assumptions and ensure open lines of communication with your team and patients. Transparency builds trust and fosters a positive organizational culture.”
- On Poor Financial Planning:
- “Many businesses fail due to poor financial management. Avoid spending without a clear strategy. Plan for the long term and ensure you have a financial buffer for unexpected expenses.”
Impact and Recognition
Under Catherine’s leadership, the Texas Cancer Centre has flourished into a leading institution, offering cutting-edge treatment options previously unavailable in the region. The centre’s success has not only transformed cancer care in Kenya but has also inspired a new generation of medical professionals and entrepreneurs to pursue excellence in healthcare innovation.
Catherine’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) in 2017 as one of the country’s high-net-worth individuals, a testament to her entrepreneurial acumen and dedication to healthcare excellence.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Catherine remains committed to expanding the Texas Cancer Centre’s impact, advocating for greater investment in cancer research and community outreach programs. She envisions a future where every Kenyan has access to affordable and effective cancer treatment, driven by a passion for equitable healthcare and patient-centered innovation.
As she continues to lead the charge in oncology, Catherine’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, seeking to make a meaningful impact in traditionally male-dominated industries.
In her own words, Catherine reflects on her journey: “Success as a woman entrepreneur in healthcare requires perseverance, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to improving patient outcomes. My journey has been challenging yet incredibly rewarding, fueled by a passion for healing and a vision for a healthier Kenya.”
Through her pioneering spirit and relentless dedication, Dr. Catherine Nyongesa stands as a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship in advancing healthcare and empowering women in Kenya and beyond.
Keywords:Dr. Catherine Nyongesa:Female entrepreneur:Cancer care in Kenya:Radiation oncologist:Texas Cancer Centre
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