In the bustling town of Eldoret, amidst the daily commotion and activities, there exists a symbol of relentless determination and unwavering resilience – Jane Wanjiru Muchune.At the age of 63, she has not only become a well-known figure but also a source of hope and inspiration for many.
Each morning, as the sun graces Eldoret with its presence, Wanjiru is already hard at work in her modest home in the Kasarani area of Langas estate.
Her mission?
To create and distribute her renowned porridge, a culinary masterpiece that has captured the hearts and palates of both office workers and locals alike.
What started as a small venture has grown into an incredible journey, overcoming obstacles and leaving an enduring impact on her community.
Wanjiru’s porridge is not your typical breakfast fare. It’s a delightful blend of ground omena (sardines), milk, and various fruits, showcasing her culinary innovation and deep understanding of her customers’ preferences.
Sold at Ksh50 per cup, this flavorful concoction has become a staple in the lives of many, offering not only nourishment but also a taste of Wanjiru’s unwavering spirit.
However, Wanjiru’s path to entrepreneurship did not stem from mere culinary aspirations. It emerged out of necessity, a response to the tragic loss of her husband three decades ago. Suddenly finding herself in the role of both mother and father to her children, she faced an overwhelming challenge.
The loss of her husband, the family’s primary breadwinner, placed the heavy responsibility of providing for her family’s needs and ensuring her children’s education squarely on her shoulders.
“It was tough to cope after my husband’s passing,” she recounted in a previous interview. “I knew that raising them alone would be challenging, but through wisdom and courage, I managed.”
With unwavering determination and a strong will, Wanjiru ventured into the world of business. In 1990, she began selling her porridge to her neighbors in the Langas estate, pricing a cup at a modest Ksh5.
What began as a small-scale endeavor quickly flourished through her unrelenting efforts, becoming a source of sustenance not only for her family but for her entire community.
Through relentless hard work and dedication, Wanjiru’s enterprise thrived. Her unyielding commitment allowed her to send her children to school, ensuring they received the education she believed would pave the way for a brighter future.
Her eldest son, George Maina Muchune, successfully earned his degree at Moi University, a testament to Wanjiru’s determination to fulfill her children’s dreams and aspirations.
One of the most inspiring aspects of Wanjiru’s journey is the transformation she brought about in her family’s life. Despite facing eviction due to rent arrears, she persevered, refusing to let adversity dictate her fate. Her message to women resonates deeply – life’s challenges can be overcome through prayer, hard work, and unwavering determination.
“Allow me to advise women that everything is possible in life. Whether you have lost your husband or parents, just keep praying and working hard. What truly matters is how you carry yourself, without relying on others,” she emphasizes.
Reflecting on her own past, Wanjiru shares that she couldn’t attend secondary school due to financial constraints, despite her academic brilliance. Yet, she stands as living proof that neither gender nor circumstances need to define one’s destiny.
