This archive report was first published on 12 July 2020.
July 12, 2020, marked a significant day for Meshack Otieno, a Juja artisan who has been making waves with his affordable and unique hospital beds.
His designs, which have been inspired by his experience with imported beds, have gained widespread attention on social media, with many Kenyans calling on the government to support his work.
Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, Otieno revealed that his motivation to make the unique beds stemmed from his experience in repairing imported hospital beds in various facilities countrywide.
He noted that the imported beds were of poor quality, despite costing an arm and leg, and that he had been contracted to repair them numerous times.
"I charge each of these beds KSh 25,000 while the imported beds cost KSh 180,000 and are made of plastic," Otieno said.
With his unique designs going viral on social media, Otieno has received various offers from potential customers, and he is hopeful that key agencies and individuals will support him.
Interestingly, he started creating these beds in 2016, and according to him, going viral is his big break.