This archive report was first published on 4 November 2021.
November 4, 2021, marked a significant turning point in Samuel Ndungu's life. After completing his secondary education at Murang'a High School, he began working as a porter, carrying heavy loads for people and traders in the hope of earning a living.
However, Ndungu's entrepreneurial spirit soon took over, and he decided to start his own business selling fruits in the Nairobi market. With an initial investment of Sh30,000, he began by selling 100 kilograms of fruits and has since expanded his operations to import 10-15 tons of fruits from Tanzania, Uganda, and various parts of Kenya.
After a decade of hard work, Ndungu's business has flourished, with his profits increasing from Sh25 per kilogram to Sh35. He attributes his success to his ability to identify a high-demand product and his willingness to take calculated risks.
Despite the challenges he faces, including the high cost of transportation and the need to constantly monitor his stock, Ndungu remains optimistic about his business. He has also employed two staff members to help him with sales and marketing.
When asked about his secret to selling high-quality fruits, Ndungu replied, 'If you inspect it carefully, it's very sweet and juicy when you cut it.'
Ndungu's journey from being a porter to a successful entrepreneur serves as a testament to the power of hard work and determination. He advises young people to be innovative and take calculated risks to achieve their goals.
