The Maa Trust has challenged the Maa community to change their traditional mindset and embrace emerging business opportunities as a new generation of entrepreneurs steps forward with new ideas beyond beadwork and livestock.
Speaking during a lively Predators’ Den pitching competition at Ngila ECDE Centre in Talek, Narok West Sub-County, Maa Trust trustee Joseph Loseiyo urged residents to diversify their income streams and tap into untapped sectors.
“The community is well known for beadwork, livestock, and honey, but the time has come to embrace new opportunities,” said Loseiyo.
“Ventures such as water, soap making, bakeries, and environmental conservation offer essential products and services for daily life. We must take advantage of these avenues to grow our talents,” he said.
The competition, which brought together 20 shortlisted entrepreneurs from an initial pool of 115 applicants, showcased innovation across sectors including environmental conservation, economic empowerment, education, and skills development.
Loseiyo praised the initiative as a game-changer for entrepreneurship in the region.
“This is one of the best platforms for nurturing entrepreneurship in the community. The organisers have made it impactful, and it will continue helping many unlock their potential,” he noted.
Among the standout winners was Martin Kiok, a cybercafé operator who also offers photography services and computer training. He received a Sh650,000 scholarship from the Saruni Basecamp Foundation Kenya to further his studies.
“I feel motivated and grateful. I will use this opportunity to gain more knowledge and strengthen my business,” Kiok said.
Latiatu Naoruri, who was declared the winner in the best overall business category, secured Sh250,000 to boost his bakery venture and said the funding will help him expand his product line.
“I plan to introduce biscuits and cookies and invest in equipment like a bread slicer. This opportunity will take my business to the next level,” he said.
Anne Kimakia, another beneficiary who received Sh150,000 from the I&M bank in the best adult business category, plans to expand her livestock business and shared her journey from humble beginnings.
“I started with table banking savings. With the high demand during market days, I am working to increase my stock,” she explained.
Programmes Officer at I&M Bank, Naomi Cheres, said the institution partnered in the initiative to support youth and women entrepreneurs with seed capital and capacity building.
“We mobilised funds from various donors to support startups and existing businesses. This is our first project in Mara, and we are keen on tracking how beneficiaries utilise the funds,” said Cheres.
A total of Sh1.8 million was disbursed to winners, with organisers committing to follow-up support to ensure sustainability and growth.
Predators’ Den, a flagship initiative by the Maa Trust, combines structured training, mentorship, and live pitching before business experts.
The programme equips participants with skills in business planning, financial literacy, and pitching, helping them transform early-stage ideas into viable enterprises.
So far, 168 entrepreneurs have undergone training through the Street Business School programme, supported by the I&M MSME team.
As the initiative gains momentum, stakeholders hope it will spark a shift in mindset—encouraging the Maa community to diversify, innovate, and build resilient businesses for the future.
By Emily Kadzo
