Narok: The Maa Trust has called on the Maa community to shift from their traditional economic activities and explore new business ventures. During a Predators’ Den pitching competition held at Ngila ECDE Centre in Talek, Narok West Sub-County, Jackson Looseiya, a trustee of the Maa Trust, urged community members to diversify their income by venturing into sectors beyond beadwork and livestock.
According to Kenya News Agency, Looseiya highlighted the potential in areas such as water, soap making, bakeries, and environmental conservation, urging the community to take advantage of these opportunities. The event showcased innovative ideas from 20 entrepreneurs, narrowed down from 115 applicants, demonstrating progress in environmental conservation, economic empowerment, education, and skills development.
Looseiya praised the competition as a transformative platform for nurturing entrepreneurship within the region. He emphasized its role in unlocking the potential of many community members. Standout participants included Martin Kiok, who operates a cybercaf© and offers photography and computer training services. Kiok received a Sh650,000 scholarship from the Saruni Basecamp Foundation Kenya to further his education and business skills.
Carl Naurori, awarded Sh250,000 for the best overall business category, plans to expand his bakery by introducing new products and investing in equipment. Anne Kimakia, who won Sh150,000 in the best adult business category, intends to grow her livestock business, leveraging her success in table banking savings.
Naomi Cheres, Programmes Officer at I and M Bank, discussed the bank’s role in supporting youth and women entrepreneurs through seed capital and capacity building. The institution collaborated with various donors to fund startups and existing businesses, marking their first project in the Mara region.
The total disbursement of Sh1,920,000 to winners reflects a commitment to support sustainability and growth. Predators’ Den, an initiative by the Maa Trust, integrates training, mentorship, and business pitching, equipping participants with business planning and financial literacy skills.
To date, 168 entrepreneurs have benefited from the Street Business School programme, supported by the I and M MSME team. As the initiative continues, stakeholders aim to inspire a shift in mindset, encouraging the Maa community to diversify and innovate for future business resilience.
