The Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC) has unveiled the inaugural cohort of the Sustainable Waste Innovation for a Future in Transition (SWIFT) program, marking a significant step towards transitioning Kenya to a circular and inclusive economy.
Comprising 57 entrepreneurs from across the country, with 32 in incubation and 25 in acceleration, the cohort will benefit from tailored business support over the next 18 months.
This support, which includes business advisory, mentorship, technical assistance, and financing, aims to bolster their businesses on circularity principles.
Selected after rigorous evaluation processes, these enterprises offer innovative solutions to pressing environmental challenges through sustainable waste management practices.
A joint initiative of KCIC and the IKEA Foundation, the SWIFT program seeks to transform Kenya’s waste management sector through tailored business support and policy strengthening.
Kenya’s green entrepreneurial ecosystem, with an estimated market potential of $54 billion.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of KCIC, Joseph Murabula highlighted the organization’s commitment to supporting climate enterprises toward commercial viability.
He expressed confidence in the cohort’s potential to become success stories within the sector.
“What we do at KCIC involves supporting enterprises like yourselves to get to the commercial stage where your business model is well defined,” he stated. “I am confident that in the next 18 months, with the support you’ll receive, you will be stellar success stories of what is possible within this space.”
The Program Manager, Jabez Mutune echoed Mr Murabula’s sentiments, emphasizing KCIC’s dedication to nurturing innovative solutions and championing environmental sustainability.
“I am excited to have the 57 of you join us. To be here is a validation that beyond yourselves, we also believe in your business and the innovation that you are coming with.” This affirmation emphasizes KCIC’s dedication to nurturing and championing innovative solutions that address critical environmental challenges.
According to the ‘Trends and Opportunities for Green Entrepreneurship in Kenya’ report by ANDE, the waste management sector holds significant market potential. However, green enterprises often lack financing and supportive policy conditions.
KCIC and the IKEA Foundation aim to address these challenges and promote green entrepreneurship through financial access and policy reforms.
The SWIFT Program aims to promote green entrepreneurship, create jobs, improve living conditions, and address environmental challenges.
Among the participants in the virtual session was Hannan Mohammed, the Founder of Minfadhli Enterprises, who conveyed her excitement about joining the program. “This opportunity represents a significant milestone in realizing my vision for sustainable waste solutions and job creation,” she stated. “I am keen to collaborate with peers and experts, refine my business strategy, and make a meaningful contribution to the circular economy. Let’s work together to innovate and build a cleaner, more sustainable future through effective waste management practices.”
Charles Kangere, the Founder of Tranbiz Waste & Recycling Solutions, expressed appreciation for being part of the program. “We are optimistic that this program will enhance our waste management operations into a robust and modern business,” he remarked. “Through SWIFT, we aim to efficiently, profitably, and environmentally responsibly manage waste in Kenya, aligning with the principles of the circular economy model.”
Over the course of its three-year implementation, the SWIFT Program aims to generate upwards of 2,000 direct jobs, 4,000 indirect jobs, and enhance the livelihoods of over 5,000 households in Kenya.
Additionally, on the policy front, the program will collaborate with Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Uasin Gishu counties to enhance the waste management policy framework.
This collaborative effort seeks to cultivate a favorable business environment and encourage both public and private sector engagement in the sector.