In a small workshop along the busy streets of Kericho County, Nelly Nduta, 68, can be found at work, her hands moving with great skill as she creates and sells various products.
For nearly three decades, Nelly and her husband, Peter Mbiu, 75, have been part of the Jua Kali sector — an informal business that requires creativity and determination.
Their journey began in 1996, and over the years, they have built a thriving business that has supported their family and educated their children.
Nduta's entry into the Jua Kali business came alongside her husband, who was already involved in the trade.
They started selling basins, and traditional jikos but had big dreams.
They are now selling metal boxes, modern jikos, sufurias, ropes, chicken watering cans, brooms, wire mesh, water containers, and various jua kali tools.
Together, they built a business that would not only provide for their family but also give their children education opportunities.
The couple worked tirelessly, sourcing materials from as far as Nakuru, Nairobi, and Kisumu, often travelling long distances to ensure they had what they needed.
Raising children while running a business was not an easy task, but Nduta and Mbiu were determined to ensure their children received a good education.
Today, all their children are successful and independent, pursuing careers in various fields, some working in the jua kali industry.
Despite the struggles they faced in sourcing stock and dealing with the unpredictable nature of their sales, Nduta and Mbiu managed to stay focused.
On good days, they might make up to Sh5,000, but on slower days, they could earn less.
Regardless, they kept pushing forward, never giving up on their vision.
"Some days are better than others, but we never stop working," says Mbiu.
Throughout their journey, Nduta has noticed how the Jua Kali sector has evolved. When they began, it was predominantly a male-dominated field, but Nduta has always encouraged women to get involved.
“Jua Kali is not just a man’s job. I want to see more young women working in this field, Over the years, I have intended to become a role model for many women, showing that hard work and determination can lead to success, regardless of gender," Nduta reiterated.
In her free time, Nduta mentors young women in Kericho, encouraging them to take pride in any work they choose.
She advises that it is important for women not to shy away from hard labour since hard work pays off.
Her message is clear that hard work is not about gender but about commitment effort and determination.
Nduta and Mbiu also believe in the importance of staying active as one gets older.
They both refuse to sit idle in their retirement years, always finding ways to contribute to their community and stay busy with their work.
"Don’t depend on your children. Keep working, and you will find fulfilment. Staying engaged in work is crucial for both physical and mental well-being,” says Nduta.
Despite the challenges that come with running a small business, both have built a reputation for being reliable and honest traders.
Their customers trust them because of their consistent quality and fair prices.
They make the clients feel welcomed with humility which has helped maintain regular ones and attract new clients since emphasizes integrity.
Looking ahead, Nduta plans to continue running her business while also giving back to her community.
She hopes to inspire more young women to become financially independent through their hard work.
"If I can do it, anyone can, my goal is to help others understand that no matter your background or gender, there is dignity in every kind of work,” says Nduta
Nduta insists that she has remained healthy and proud of her work since the Jua Kali business is a form of exercise for the body.
The power of resilience and perseverance has made her and her husband enjoy the fruits of their labour.
She concludes by urging elderly parents to raise their children in a Godly manner and right way and also avoiding excessive usage of alcohol which harms human health.