This archive report was first published on 11 January 2020.
Paul Majani Njeri, a 26-year-old entrepreneur from Ruiru, has been selling smokies for two years. He started with an initial investment of Sh150 and has since built a thriving business.
Before venturing into the smokie business, Njeri was a singer and dancer, performing under the stage name Lusher Paulo and even being part of the 'official Gloria Muliro dancers'. He also works as a dance instructor.
However, Njeri's unique approach to selling smokies has set him apart from his competitors. He dresses in a suit, rather than the traditional apron and chef's cap, to attract customers. This unconventional approach has both helped and hindered his business.
While some customers are drawn to his unique style, others have mistaken him for a white-collar worker who only sells smokies as a side hustle. Njeri's business has also faced competition, but his distinctive dressing style has given him a competitive edge.
On a good day, Njeri earns over Sh3,000, but on slow days, his earnings can dip to as low as Sh700. Despite the challenges, Njeri remains optimistic about his business and believes that it has the potential to thrive.
As he reflects on his journey, Njeri emphasizes the importance of not stereotyping certain jobs as being fit for a particular class of people. He believes that this mindset has contributed to the unemployment of many young people.
