Job searching in Kenya has become a difficult task, with over 1.4 million Kenyans actively looking for employment, according to a survey by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS). The report revealed that seven million Kenyans are unemployed, debunking the myth that the country’s unemployment rate is at 40 percent. This paints a grim picture of the current state of Kenya’s economy, leaving many Kenyans to seek other opportunities for income generation.
Fortunately, there are several businesses that one can start with different amounts of starting capital. Here are ten business ideas that can be started in Kenya:
Movie Shop – Starting capital KES 70,000 – 100,000: A movie shop requires a reliable internet connection, renting a stall, and purchasing equipment. Locating your shop near universities or schools can increase your customer base.
Salon Business – Starting capital KES 50,000 – 100,000: The salon business is dependent on its location and services provided. It is essential to rent a room and invest in updated equipment, and interior design to attract and retain customers.
Car Wash Business – Starting capital KES 50,000 – 100,000: As more Kenyans buy cars, car washing businesses are in high demand. To begin, you need to secure an easy-to-access yard, reliable source of water, and equipment.
Butchery – Starting capital KES 50,000 – 80,000: To succeed in the butchery business, you need to secure a good location with potential customers and a reliable source of meat.
Money Transfer – Starting capital KES 20,000 – 50,000: Money transfer services such as Mpesa are used by almost every Kenyan on a daily basis. To start this business, you need a branded shop, an ETR machine, and registration.
Commercial Cleaning – Starting capital KES 80,000 – 100,000: Companies and businesses are now outsourcing their cleaning services. To start a commercial cleaning business, you need reliable staff, equipment, and materials. You also need to market your services to potential clients.
Boda Boda Business – Starting capital KES 50,000 – 80,000: The boda boda business is growing rapidly in Kenya. To start, you need to purchase or rent a motorbike and protective gear.
Online Accessories Store – Starting capital KES 30,000 – 40,000: Online shopping has become popular in Kenya. To start an online accessories store, you need a social platform to market your products and accompanying pictures.
Daycare – Starting capital KES 20,000 – 30,000: The number of working parents with children has increased in Kenya. Daycares offer parents professional care for their children during working hours. To start a daycare, you need to secure a child-friendly environment and facilities.
Milkbar – Starting capital KES 20,000 – 30,000: Milkbars require a refrigeration system, reliable milk supply, and an identified market gap. Milk ATMs can help grow the business to supply milk to a large group of clients.
In conclusion, job searching in Kenya has become a daunting task due to the high unemployment rate. However, there are several businesses that one can start with different amounts of starting capital. It is crucial to conduct research, identify the target market, and invest in marketing to succeed in these businesses.
