In the bustling city of Mombasa, where the struggles of daily life often meet with limited opportunities, one man’s ingenuity is making a significant impact.
Samuel Jengo, a 46-year-old entrepreneur, has become a beacon of hope for many in his community.
Facing the harsh reality of job scarcity that plagues countless Kenyans, Samuel embarked on a journey that not only sustains his family but also provides essential services to those in need.
After completing his O-levels at Ngenia High School in 1998, he found himself navigating the challenging landscape of employment.
Fueled by determination and a desire to make a difference, he turned to odd jobs to make ends meet.
It was during this period of survival that he stumbled upon a unique business opportunity.
Later, while living in Mombasa, he saw a business opportunity in selling hot water, especially to new mothers in the maternity ward.
“I noticed that every time I looked outside the hospital, I saw people selling food, yet patients admitted here at Makadara suffer due to lack of hot water. That’s when I realized I could set up a small stove,” he explains.
According to him, his income has allowed him to sustain his livelihood.
He sells five liters of hot water for Sh50, knowing that there is a constant demand, especially from new mothers giving birth every day.
“However, I face my share of challenges. During the scorching hot season, there are hardly any buyers, and when doctors go on strike, I lose customers. Also, the cost of firewood is a significant burden on my business,” he adds.
“On a good day, I make a substantial income, and this helps me support my family, pay my children’s school fees, and cover my monthly rent of Sh5,000,” he says.
One of his customers, Rose Nyamwera, commends his business, stating that it has been a tremendous help, especially for patients admitted to Makadara Hospital.
“I have a patient admitted here at Makadara, and I have known Samuel for a long time. I have benefited greatly from the hot water we buy from him because there is no hot water available inside the hospital,” Rose explains.
Traditionally, relatives with patients in hospitals like Makadara would have to bring hot water from home or find alternative solutions each time their loved ones needed it.
Samuel’s innovative venture has not only made life more convenient for these families.
