This archive report was first published on 7 July 2021.
Life took a dramatic turn for Erickson Omwamba when he dropped out of secondary school due to lack of fees. Born in Nyanchwa, Kisii County, Omwamba's family moved to Saboti, Trans-Nzoia County in 1989 in search of better opportunities.
Published on July 7, 2021, Omwamba's story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and determination. He recalled studying at Nyanchwa Primary School from class one to class seven before moving to Saboti.
With no means to continue his education, Omwamba turned to finding work to support himself and his family. The idea of selling water struck him, and with the help of his uncle, he acquired an old bicycle to transport water.
In March 2007, Omwamba started selling water, initially charging Sh15 for a 20-litre Jerican, which he later increased to Sh20 in 2009. His daily collection averaged Sh5000, allowing him to provide for his family.
As his business grew, Omwamba married his sweetheart in 2010 and had two children. He used his profits to buy two plots of land, a grade cow, and educate his children, as well as two brothers and a sister.
Omwamba and his water vending colleagues formed Maji Matamu Sacco Limited, contributing Sh200 daily for their welfare. The Sacco has thrived, with thirty active members borrowing money for development and other needs.
Omwamba took advantage of the Sacco to borrow Sh500,000, enabling him to buy the two plots he owns. He also borrowed Sh600,000 to purchase half an acre of land for farming and a grade cow for milk.
Today, Omwamba supplies water to customers in Kapenguria town and construction sites using a new bicycle. His message to the youth is clear: 'find something meaningful to do instead of saying there are no jobs, because this work has brought me from far.'
