The Entrepreneur

Paul Mburu Muthumbi: Building Kenya’s Mbukinya Bus Empire

Mbukinya faced tough early challenges: stiff competition, unreliable drivers, and high operating costs. Fuel price hikes and maintenance expenses cut into profits, and banks hesitated to fund small, high-risk PSV businesses. ‘There were days I doubted my choice,’ Paul Mburu recalls, ‘but I believed hard work would pay off.’”

Published

1 week ago

November 12, 2024

Charles Wachira

In 2000, Paul Mburu Muthumbi took a bold leap into the PSV industry, launching Mbukinya with a single bus bought for KSh 800,000 through a small loan. "The first months were tough, but I believed in better service," he recalls, as he carved a niche in Nairobi’s crowded transport sector.

Born and raised in Limuru, Kiambu County, Paul Mburu Muthumbi, now 90, has lived a life that exemplifies resilience and determination.

His story is not just one of personal triumph, but also a testament to the power of persistence in the face of adversity.

As a young man, Paul was passionate about the public transport sector, inspired by the buses that passed through his village. “I always knew I wanted to be involved in transport. I just didn’t know how,” he says.

In 1952, after completing his final exams, Paul found himself navigating the difficult job market.

In 1992, armed with little more than determination, Paul began hawking eggs in Nairobi’s busy streets, trying to make ends meet. “I knew that if I worked hard and kept my eyes open for opportunities, I could eventually do better,” he recalls.

It was in these early years of struggling in the informal sector that Paul learned crucial lessons about customer service, managing a small business, and the importance of reinvestment. “I used every penny from selling eggs to save for the next big step,” Paul explains.

Adding, “It wasn’t easy, but I knew that if I worked hard and kept my eyes open for opportunities, I could do better,” he recalls. Over the next 11 years, Paul saved KSh 6,000, which he used to invest in his first bus—a second-hand vehicle that would mark the beginning of his journey in the public transport sector.

The Birth of Mbukinya in 2000
In 2000, after nearly a decade of honing his entrepreneurial skills, Paul saw a potential opportunity in the public transport sector.

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, had a growing population, and reliable transportation services were in short supply. Recognizing the gap, he decided to take a bold leap and venture into the PSV industry.

With a small loan from a local microfinance bank, Paul bought his first second-hand bus.

The vehicle cost him KSh 800,000, an amount he managed to secure through a personal guarantee and a strong relationship with the local bank. “I didn’t have much collateral, but my reputation from my small egg business helped me convince the bank to lend me the money,” he says.

Paul registered Mbukinya, a name inspired by his family, and launched the business with a single bus operating on one route in Nairobi.

The early days were tough, with the bus struggling to fill seats and competition from well-established PSV companies. “The first few months were the hardest,” Paul admits.

“The industry was full of players, and many were set in their ways. But I believed in offering better service, and that’s how we started to build our reputation.”

Overcoming Early Challenges
The road ahead was fraught with challenges.

Mbukinya’s initial struggles included fierce competition, unreliable drivers, and high operational costs.

Paul recalls how fuel price fluctuations and maintenance costs often ate into the company’s meagre profits. “There were days when I wondered if I’d made the right choice. But I knew that with consistency and hard work, we could turn things around,” he says.

One of the biggest hurdles Paul faced was a lack of financing to expand his fleet.

In Kenya, many banks are reluctant to lend to new and small businesses, especially in the transport sector, which is viewed as high-risk.

“It was hard to get financial support from banks. They didn’t see the potential in PSV businesses back then,” Paul explains.

However, through persistence, he managed to secure another loan in 2003 from a local bank, this time amounting to KSh 1.5 million (US $.11,27.91).With this loan, he expanded his fleet to three buses.

“The key was to prove that I could repay the loans,” he says. “I made sure that Mbukinya’s buses were always well-maintained and on time. Punctuality became our trademark.”

Building a Reputation and Expanding the Fleet
By 2005, Mbukinya began to gain traction. Paul focused on customer satisfaction, ensuring his buses were clean, his drivers were professional, and the schedules were strictly adhered to.

“A happy passenger is a loyal passenger,” Paul reflects.

This commitment to service quickly paid off, and soon, the buses were consistently full, with more customers opting for his service over competitors.

To further build the company’s reputation, Paul expanded Mbukinya’s services to other major towns in Kenya.

By 2010, the company had expanded its fleet to 10 buses.

He used the profits from his expanding fleet to invest in modernising the buses, replacing older vehicles with newer, more fuel-efficient models. This move helped reduce operational costs, making the business more profitable.

In 2012, Mbukinya hit another milestone when it became one of the first PSV companies in Kenya to introduce an electronic payment system, allowing passengers to pay via mobile money platforms like M-Pesa.

This tech-forward move attracted a new generation of commuters who valued convenience.

Navigating Economic Turmoil and the Role of Banks

As with any business, the road wasn’t always smooth.

In 2015, Kenya’s PSV industry underwent a major regulatory shift. The government introduced new licensing and inspection requirements, which required operators like Paul to invest in fleet upgrades and adhere to stricter safety standards.

“It was a tough time for all of us in the industry,” Paul recalls. “The new regulations meant significant investments in safety equipment and training. But I saw this as an opportunity to differentiate Mbukinya from other operators.”

Despite the financial strain, Paul’s good relationship with banks helped him secure the necessary funding to meet the new regulations.

“The banks saw that we were committed to the business and to complying with regulations. They helped us get through those challenging times,” he says.

In 2018, Paul was able to secure a larger loan to purchase 15 more buses, growing the fleet to over 30 vehicles. His strong ties with financial institutions, built on years of consistent business practices, allowed him to access capital that many of his competitors struggled to obtain.

A Crisis with the Hino Kenya Buses

Despite the steady growth and success, Mbukinya faced a significant setback in 2019. The company had acquired 41 Toyota Hino buses, which had initially seemed like a smart investment.

However, soon after their acquisition, the buses developed severe mechanical problems, causing a major disruption in Mbukinya’s operations. The buses, which were still within their warranty period, posed a serious challenge to the company.

To address the issue, Mbukinya returned the buses to Toyota, who assumed ownership and took on the responsibility of repairing them.

According to Muthumbi, he received KSh 60 million for the buses, but he emphasised that this amount did not fully cover the massive losses the company incurred.

“I had invested billions into those buses, and the repairs took a toll on our finances. It was a huge setback,” Paul explains.

The incident was particularly painful for Mbukinya, as the company had put significant faith in the vehicles, which were expected to bolster the fleet and improve operational efficiency.

The crisis put a strain on Mbukinya’s reputation and finances, requiring both tactical responses and long-term strategy changes.

The Night Ban Controversy

In addition to the challenges with the buses, Paul Mburu Muthumbi also found himself at odds with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) over the controversial night travel ban.

In December 2013, NTSA introduced a policy restricting public service vehicles from operating between 10 pm and 5 am, citing safety concerns due to accidents during late-night travels.

This decision was met with resistance from several PSV operators, including Muthumbi, who felt that the ban was unfairly detrimental to his business.

“The night ban hit our income hard. Losing those nighttime routes meant a significant drop in revenue,” he explains.

As the chairman of the Kenya Country Bus Owners’ Association (KCBOA), Muthumbi was a vocal critic of the policy.

He even threatened to take legal action to have the ban nullified, arguing that it unfairly affected many small PSV operators who relied on night services to stay competitive.

“We’re being punished for an issue that isn’t fully in our control,” Paul said at the time. “We’ll fight this ban in court if necessary, as it directly threatens our livelihoods.”

These challenges were particularly daunting, but they didn’t deter Muthumbi. Instead, he continued to press forward, proving his resilience in the face of adversity.

His ability to navigate these difficult situations further solidified his reputation as a determined entrepreneur in Kenya’s highly competitive transport sector.

Giving Back and the Road Ahead
Today, Mbukinya operates a fleet of 50 buses, covering multiple routes across Kenya and employing over 200 people.

Paul’s story is a testament to his resilience and vision. Beyond business, he has given back to his community, sponsoring educational programs and offering employment to many young Kenyans.

“I’ve always believed that success isn’t just about making money; it’s about lifting others along the way,” says Paul, who has invested in training programs for his staff and offered financial support to local schools.

Looking to the future, Paul is planning further expansions, with a focus on sustainability.

“I want Mbukinya to be a company that not only leads in transport but also sets the standard for environmental responsibility. We’re looking into green technologies like electric buses in the next five years,” he says.

From hawking eggs to running a transport empire, Paul Mburu Muthumbi’s story shows that with vision, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change, success is always within reach.

She Business

How Margaret Nyamumbo Built Kahawa 1893 from the Ground Up

Published

1 day ago

November 20, 2024

Charles Wachira

: Discover Margaret Nyamumbo’s journey from Kenya to the U.S. and how she
built Kahawa 1893 to empower women coffee farmers, achieving business
success and social impact

Early Life and Education: Pursuing Global Opportunities

Margaret Nyamumbo’s entrepreneurial journey began in Kenya, where she grew up on a coffee
farm. However, she moved to the U.S., a decision that significantly shaped her path.
In 2000, she travelled to Smith College, a prestigious liberal arts institution in Massachusetts,
to study economics.

Her desire to study abroad stemmed from the limited educational opportunities available for
women in Kenya at the time. As she later explained, her family encouraged her decision, viewing it as a way to give her the best opportunities for success.

After earning her degree from Smith College, Nyamumbo pursued an MBA at the Wharton
School of the University of Pennsylvania, known for its rigorous business programs.

This solidified her foundation for a future in business, although it was the allure of her roots and a passion for coffee that eventually led her back to entrepreneurship.

From Corporate Work to Entrepreneurship: Embracing Coffee Culture

After completing her studies, Nyamumbo worked in investment banking and consulting, but the world of corporate finance didn’t fully satisfy her ambitions.

It was her return to the coffee industry, deeply connected to her Kenyan heritage, that drove
her entrepreneurial leap. With a vision to support East African coffee farmers, particularly women, Nyamumbo founded Kahawa 1893 in 2018, a coffee brand dedicated to highlighting Kenya’s coffee culture while mpowering local farmers.

The name “Kahawa” is the Swahili word for coffee, while “1893” marks the year when coffee
was first commercially grown in Kenya, grounding her brand in historical significance.
Through Kahawa 1893, Nyamumbo aimed to bring a new approach to the coffee business, one
that not only celebrated East African coffee but also created fair wages for farmers.

Building a Brand with Purpose: Empowering Farmers

Nyamumbo’s vision for Kahawa 1893 went beyond just selling coffee.
She wanted to create a direct impact on the lives of the farmers growing the coffee beans.
The brand’s model incorporated a system where customers could tip the farmers directly via a
QR code found on the coffee bags.

This innovation set the company apart from competitors and positioned it as a socially
responsible business that directly benefited those involved in the production process.

In 2021, Kahawa 1893 hit a major milestone, getting its coffee stocked in Trader Joe’s—the
first Black- and woman-owned coffee brand to be featured there.

This breakthrough moment was significant for Nyamumbo, marking the recognition of her hard work and her commitment to uplifting local farmers.

Overcoming Challenges: What It Takes to Succeed

Despite the challenges of entering a highly competitive market, Nyamumbo’s determination
never wavered. In a 2022 interview with Forbes, she shared her thoughts on what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur.

“You have to be able to take the punches and keep moving,” she said. Her advice reflects the
reality of entrepreneurship: persistence, resilience, and a willingness to learn from failure are
crucial for success.

Nyamumbo also emphasised the importance of passion. “You’ve got to love what you do, or you won’t have the energy to push through the tough times,” she said.

These values have guided her journey, driving Kahawa 1893 to not only succeed but also to
change the way the coffee industry operates, particularly about fair trade and community
empowerment.

The Future of Kahawa 1893: Expanding Horizons

With her success on platforms like Shark Tank and continued global distribution, Nyamumbo’s
Kahawa 1893 is poised for growth.

Her brand continues to expand its reach, and the emphasis on ethical sourcing, community
impact, and high-quality coffee will likely remain at the heart of her business model as she looks to further innovate in the global coffee market.

Through Kahawa 1893, Nyamumbo has shown that business success is not just about
profits—it’s about purpose, people, and passion.

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.

Published

9 months ago

February 21, 2024

Charles Wachira

Harriet Chebet inspecting the label on a product by Harriet Botanicals in Nairobi, Kenya on 18 April 2024. Photo: Mumbi Oyoo

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

The Entrepreneur

CarePay Ltd: Transforming Healthcare Access in Kenya

CarePay’s journey started when Michiel Slootweg and Kees van Lede, both with expertise in finance and business, saw the vast potential of mobile technology in Kenya, a country with one of the highest mobile phone usage rates in Africa. Inspired by the success of M-PESA, Kenya’s revolutionary mobile money platform, they identified an opportunity to bring this innovation to healthcare.

Published

1 month ago

October 21, 2024

Charles Wachira

“We saw firsthand how mobile technology could change lives. In Kenya, where many people lacked access to traditional banking and insurance, we believed that the same technology could revolutionize healthcare access,” says Michiel Slootweg

Discover how CarePay Ltd, founded by Michiel Slootweg and Kees van Lede, revolutionizes healthcare in Kenya with a Mobile Health Wallet for accessible care.

By Charles Wachira

In 2015, Michiel Slootweg and Kees van Lede embarked on a bold mission to transform how healthcare is accessed in Kenya.

As seasoned entrepreneurs with a passion for innovative solutions, they co-founded CarePay Ltd, a company registered that same year with an ambitious vision: to leverage mobile technology to make healthcare affordable and accessible to all Kenyans.

At the core of their idea was a Mobile Health Wallet that would empower millions to access healthcare services with ease.

The Birth of CarePay Ltd

The story of CarePay began when Slootweg and van Lede, both with backgrounds in finance and business, recognized the enormous potential of mobile technology in a country where mobile phone penetration was among the highest in Africa.

Kenya’s groundbreaking mobile money platform, M-PESA, had already revolutionized how people sent and received money, and they saw an opportunity to extend this innovation to healthcare.

Reflecting on their motivations, Michiel Slootweg stated, “We saw firsthand how mobile technology could change lives. In Kenya, where many people lacked access to traditional banking and insurance, we believed that the same technology could revolutionize healthcare access.”

With a shared vision of bridging the gap between healthcare providers and patients, CarePay Ltd was created as a platform that allows users to save, manage, and spend funds specifically on healthcare through their mobile phones. The goal was simple: make healthcare more affordable, efficient, and inclusive through the use of digital technology.

Backed by Powerhouse Investors

To bring their vision to life, CarePay received early support from two major investors—M-PESA Foundation and IFHA (Investment Fund for Health in Africa).

The involvement of the M-PESA Foundation was particularly significant, as it provided both financial backing and a connection to Kenya’s existing mobile infrastructure. IFHA, on the other hand, brought expertise in healthcare investments across Africa, ensuring that CarePay’s model was both scalable and sustainable.

Kees van Lede emphasized the importance of these partnerships: “We knew that to create a lasting impact, we needed partners who understood both the healthcare landscape and the power of mobile technology. Our collaboration with M-PESA Foundation and IFHA was crucial in refining our model.”

Filling the Void in Healthcare Access

The CarePay platform works by allowing users to save money on their phones specifically for healthcare services.

This “Mobile Health Wallet” acts as a digital account where patients, insurers, or donors can deposit funds. These funds can then be spent at partnered healthcare facilities, making healthcare more accessible for individuals who might not have immediate access to cash.

This system provided a significant solution for Kenya’s informal sector workers, who often lacked traditional health insurance.

For many, sudden healthcare needs would result in financial strain, as out-of-pocket costs for medical care were prohibitive. CarePay’s platform allowed users to accumulate savings, which could be used at any time, reducing financial barriers to accessing medical services.

“The Mobile Health Wallet fills a critical gap in healthcare financing. It empowers individuals to take control of their health expenses,” Slootweg explained. “By creating a system where savings can be directly used for healthcare, we eliminate the anxiety of sudden medical costs.”

Challenges Encountered on the Journey

Despite their success, the journey to building CarePay was not without challenges. Both co-founders faced obstacles, including regulatory hurdles and the need to build trust among users who were unfamiliar with digital healthcare financing.

Van Lede shared, “One of the biggest challenges was educating the population about our service. Many people were skeptical about using mobile technology for healthcare, especially in rural areas. We had to work hard to demonstrate the value and security of our platform.”

Entrepreneurial Background and Entry into Kenya

Before founding CarePay, Michiel Slootweg had significant experience in finance and technology, working with various startups in Europe that focused on mobile and digital solutions.

Kees van Lede had a background in healthcare investments, which equipped him with insights into the complexities of healthcare systems and the financial challenges they faced.

Their journey to Kenya began with a simple observation: “We saw an opportunity to leverage our expertise in technology and healthcare to create meaningful change,” Slootweg noted. “Kenya was already a leader in mobile innovation, and we believed that together, we could make a difference.”

The Impact of CarePay

Since its launch, CarePay has made a significant impact on healthcare access in Kenya.

By 2024, the company had enrolled millions of Kenyans, providing them with a reliable and efficient way to save for healthcare expenses and manage their insurance coverage.

The company also played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic by ensuring that people could access care and testing services even during times of financial hardship.

Beyond individual healthcare savings, CarePay worked closely with donors and aid organizations to provide healthcare subsidies for vulnerable populations.

This ensured that even those who could not afford to save for healthcare could still access essential services.

A Vision for the Future

Under the leadership of Michiel Slootweg and Kees van Lede, CarePay continues to grow and evolve. The company’s ambition to provide universal healthcare access is driving its expansion into other African markets, with plans to extend its platform to other countries where healthcare access is limited.

CarePay’s founders envision a future where no one is left behind due to financial barriers in healthcare.

By harnessing the power of mobile technology, Slootweg and van Lede have pioneered a model that can be replicated across the continent, ensuring that millions more can access the care they need, when they need it, without the fear of financial ruin.

Conclusion

CarePay Ltd is a remarkable story of how entrepreneurial vision, technological innovation, and strategic partnerships can come together to solve one of the most pressing issues of our time—affordable healthcare.

Through their Mobile Health Wallet, Michiel Slootweg and Kees van Lede have created not just a company but a movement toward universal health care access, impacting lives across Kenya and setting the stage for a healthier Africa. As Slootweg aptly puts it, “We are just getting started. The future is bright for CarePay, and we are committed to making healthcare accessible to everyone.”

Keywords:CarePay Ltd:Mobile Health Wallet:Healthcare access Kenya:Michiel Slootweg:Kees van Lede