Introducing Charles Kimani, affectionately known as Kimani Wa Makaratasi, a Thika-based entrepreneur and the visionary founder behind Jamii Products, a company specializing in the production of environmentally friendly carrier bags aptly named “makaratasi” in Swahili.
Kimani’s entrepreneurial journey had a modest beginning, but his unwavering determination and self-assuredness propelled him towards building a multi-million-dollar enterprise. His story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of resilience and the transformative potential of a small loan.
In 2018, Kimani laid the foundation for Jamii Products, driven by a deep-seated awareness of the ecological problems associated with the widespread use of plastic bags. When the Kenyan government imposed a ban on plastic bags, Kimani recognized an opportunity and decided to take action.
“It marked a new beginning, and I made the conscious choice to be a part of changing the narrative in the packaging industry. I formulated a business model that offered a sustainable solution, giving birth to Jamii Products Limited,” he elaborated.
What distinguishes Kimani’s journey is his humble start. He embarked on this venture with a loan of only Ksh1,600, which he had acquired from Safaricom’s M-Shwari. He attributes the remarkable success of his company to a higher force, expressing, “I started with a loan of 1,600 from M-Shwari. It’s documented. When I witnessed its growth, I knew this was a manifestation of God’s favor.”
Jamii Products specializes in the production of khaki paper items, including envelopes, gift bags, packaging bags, popcorn bags, khaki rolls for packaging, cake boxes, book covers, and more. These products are not only biodegradable and compostable but also cost-effective, making them a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics.
Over the past three years, Kimani’s company has experienced significant growth, extending its reach beyond Kenyan borders. It now exports its eco-friendly products to Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Starting from its modest origins in Thika, Jamii Products has significantly expanded its production to cater to both local and international markets. Currently, the company operates two branches, including one in Naivasha, a testament to its ongoing expansion.
Kimani recognizes the global shift away from single-use plastics and the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. While alternatives have often come with a higher price tag, his company fills a crucial niche in the market by providing eco-friendly options at competitive prices.
Despite his impressive achievements, Kimani faces challenges in his business pursuits. Logistics, particularly the delivery of products to certain regions of the country, poses a significant obstacle. Additionally, he sources his materials from Tanzania, as acquiring them from Kenyan suppliers can sometimes prove cost-prohibitive.
Beyond his commitment to sustainable packaging, Kimani is dedicated to imparting knowledge and skills to his community. In January 2018, Jamii Products initiated a training program aimed at empowering community members. This program provides training in the production of various eco-friendly products, such as packaging bags, envelopes, book covers, popcorn bags, gift bags, cake boxes, as well as branding and marketing. Kimani’s unwavering commitment to promoting sustainability and socio-economic development in his community is evident in his focus on skill-building and awareness-raising initiatives.
