Would you consider starting a hearse business if you had the capital?
This is a question that has gained traction among Kenyans following recent remarks by renowned motivational speaker and career coach, Wambugu Wa Kamau.
While addressing a youth empowerment forum focused on financial literacy and entrepreneurship, Wambugu encouraged young people to explore unique and untapped investment opportunities. Among the ideas he proposed was venturing into the funeral transport business, which he described as an overlooked but potentially rewarding sector.
Untapped Potential in Funeral Services
Wambugu noted that while many youth aim to invest in common ventures, few consider the funeral industry, yet it remains essential and consistent in demand. In particular, he highlighted the hearse business as one with steady returns.
“This is how smart investors think. They save, then invest wisely. If you’re planning to purchase a vehicle, consider one that generates income rather than expenses. A hearse might not be glamorous, but it can be very profitable,” he said.
He added that in many cases, hearses are only used once full payment is made, making them a more secure investment in comparison to public service vehicles that face operational risks.
Observations from the Industry
Wambugu also pointed out that some operators in the industry go the extra mile to find clients, especially during low-demand periods. Some even attend funeral planning meetings to offer transport services, often securing deals through affordability and timely presence.
“They present themselves as friends of the deceased and offer competitive rates, which makes it easier to win over clients,” he explained, drawing light-hearted reactions from the crowd.
A Word of Caution
Despite the potential profitability, Wambugu emphasized that this line of business requires emotional intelligence, professionalism, and discretion.
He warned that overly aggressive marketing tactics could be seen as insensitive, while a low-profile approach might result in poor visibility. Balancing business growth with empathy is key.
Lessons in Smart Investment
His message was clear: young people should look beyond popular trends and explore sectors that meet essential needs. Conducting thorough research and understanding market gaps can unlock opportunities that others might overlook.
In a related case, Bizna Kenya once reported a story of a Kenyan entrepreneur who entered the coffin-making business, but only sold three out of over 170 units produced—highlighting the importance of understanding both the market and customer needs before investing.
