In the bustling heart of Kericho town, amid the clinking sounds of hammers and grinders, stands a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination of Kenya’s jua kali sector. For over 40 years, Peter Mbugua, now 75, has epitomized the spirit of the informal sector, transforming scrap materials into functional masterpieces like charcoal ovens, frying pans, piggy banks, and chicken coops. His story is one of grit, environmental consciousness, and a deep commitment to community development.
A Lifelong Dedication to Craft and Community
Mbugua’s journey began in the early 1980s, when he started working with recycled materials to create various household items. In Majengo, Nyagacho, and Eland estates, he’s become a familiar figure known for his handcrafted products. From humble beginnings, he has built a reputation for creating unique items that cater to the practical needs of the community.
Throughout his journey, Mbugua has witnessed the transformation of the jua kali sector, seeing it grow from a small informal trade into an essential part of Kenya’s economy. His success story is rooted in his dedication to mastering his craft and adapting his skills to meet market demands. “The journey has not been easy,” he shares, “but it’s been fulfilling. My work has supported my family, educated my children, and now, it’s supporting my grandchildren.”
An Advocate for Environmental Conservation
Mbugua’s success as a jua kali artisan goes beyond financial gain. His work is also deeply rooted in environmental conservation. By recycling metal and rubber waste, he has found a way to turn discarded materials into useful products while reducing the amount of waste in his community.
“Metal waste is a major environmental hazard,” Mbugua explains. “If left untreated, it pollutes soil and damages ecosystems. By repurposing this waste, I’m able to earn a living while protecting our environment.” Mbugua’s approach exemplifies the philosophy of “reduce, reuse, and recycle,” and he has become a local advocate for sustainable practices.
His creations, like charcoal ovens and frying pans, are crafted from scrap metal, while his innovative chicken coops are made from recycled car tyres. By turning discarded items into practical solutions, Mbugua not only minimizes waste but also provides affordable and durable products to his customers.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As a grandfather, Mbugua has used his earnings to support his family, funding the education of all four of his children, who have gone on to complete bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He sees his work as not only a source of income but also as a means of encouraging young people to explore alternative career paths.
“There’s a lot of potential in the jua kali sector,” he says. “If more young people take up technical skills, we can tackle unemployment. It’s not just about getting a job; it’s about creating something with your own hands, something that can help you and others.” Mbugua has also trained many young artisans, sharing his expertise and helping them start their own jua kali businesses.
Mbugua firmly believes that fostering skills in the jua kali sector can be a solution to Kenya’s high unemployment rate. He has seen firsthand how self-employment in this industry has transformed lives, and he’s eager to pass on his knowledge to the next generation. “Many of my employees have gone on to establish their own businesses, and that’s something I’m proud of. The youth need to find creative ways to earn a living, and the jua kali industry offers that path.”
Challenges and Opportunities in the Jua Kali Sector
Despite its potential, the jua kali sector faces numerous challenges. Limited access to capital, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of training opportunities are just a few of the obstacles that hinder its growth. Mbugua himself has had to overcome financial constraints, often relying on resourcefulness to make the most of available materials. Yet, he remains optimistic about the future of the sector.
“There are many talented young people who could excel in the jua kali industry, but they need support,” Mbugua says. He urges the government and private sector to invest in training programs that can equip young people with relevant technical skills. Such initiatives, he believes, would not only create job opportunities but also enhance the quality and diversity of products in the market.
Access to capital is another significant challenge. While Mbugua has managed to grow his business through sheer determination, many aspiring artisans struggle to secure the funds needed to start or expand their businesses. “I’ve been lucky enough to make a decent income from my work, but not everyone has that advantage. With better financial support, the jua kali sector could thrive even more,” he asserts.
Success in Urban Settings and New Ventures
Mbugua’s story also demonstrates that even in urban environments with limited space, sustainable practices can flourish. His work has not only provided him with an income but has also given him the stability to venture into new areas like poultry farming. Recently, Mbugua added poultry rearing to his repertoire, building coops from recycled tyres. This new venture has been profitable, diversifying his income and proving that creativity can lead to multiple revenue streams.
“I’ve always looked for ways to make the most of what I have,” he says. “The jua kali industry taught me that with a bit of innovation, you can create something out of almost nothing.” His chicken coops have become popular, appealing to those who want a low-cost, sustainable option for poultry farming.
Daily Earnings and Financial Independence
Mbugua’s business has become a reliable source of income. On a good day, he can make over Ksh 15,000 from sales, allowing him to live comfortably and continue supporting his family. His success highlights the potential of the jua kali sector as a pathway to financial independence. Mbugua believes that if more young people embraced such opportunities, they could not only earn a decent living but also contribute positively to the community.
For Mbugua, the financial rewards are secondary to the satisfaction he gets from his work. “It’s not just about the money,” he says. “It’s about knowing that my work has made a difference, both for my family and for the environment.”
A Call for Government Support
As he looks to the future, Mbugua hopes to see more government support for artisans in the jua kali sector. He believes that if the government invested in vocational training and provided resources to artisans, the sector could grow exponentially. By creating a supportive environment, he argues, the government could help more people become self-employed, reducing the burden on formal employment sectors.
Mbugua’s story is a reminder of the resilience and innovation that exists within the informal sector. It’s a call for recognition and support, for both the artisans who dedicate their lives to the craft and the young people who have the potential to carry on this legacy.
A Legacy of Hope and Inspiration
As Mbugua reflects on his journey, he is proud of what he has accomplished but even prouder of the impact he has had on others. His story is one of hope, resilience, and a reminder that success can be found in unexpected places. Mbugua’s life is a testament to the power of hard work and creativity, inspiring a new generation to look beyond traditional employment and explore the possibilities of the jua kali sector.
In a rapidly changing world, Mbugua’s commitment to his craft and his community serves as a beacon of hope. He has not only made a living from his work but has also made a difference, showing that one person’s dedication can create ripples of change. His legacy will live on, both in the products he has created and in the lives he has touched.
As the clatter of metal continues in Kericho town, Peter Mbugua’s story is a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges, innovate, and leave a lasting impact. His journey is one that deserves recognition, not just as an individual success story but as a reflection of the potential within Kenya’s jua kali sector and its role in shaping a sustainable, self-sufficient future for generations to come.
