Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro has overcome formidable challenges, rising from the hardships of the slums to achieve his ambitious dream of purchasing a car. In a recent interview with TV47’s Willis Raburu on Wabebe Experience, Osoro shared his remarkable journey, revealing that his hawking business played a pivotal role in realizing this dream.
Osoro explained that his initial venture involved selling newspapers, with a modest profit of KSh300. However, recognizing the need for diversification, he transitioned to selling peanuts when the demand for newspapers dwindled after 10 am. This strategic move proved highly successful, yielding profits of up to KSh1,000 per day as he navigated traffic-heavy Nairobi roads.
The Member of Parliament for South Mugirango expanded his entrepreneurial endeavors further by entering the clothing business. Renting a small house after completing his morning sales, Osoro explored Nairobi’s Gikomba, the largest second-hand clothes market, where he purchased women’s official wear. Ironing and mending the garments meticulously, he marketed them in offices, particularly targeting office receptionists. His innovative approach, involving a KSh500 deposit with the balance payable at the end of the month, garnered a significant customer base.
Unfortunately, Osoro’s thriving clothing venture encountered a setback when he was arrested by county askaris, leading to the confiscation of his stock. After a week of community service at City Hall, he decided to shift his focus to the butchery business.
Combining his newspaper and snacks business with his new venture, Osoro eventually amassed enough funds to pursue a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) course. However, a pivotal moment in his journey took an unexpected turn when he made the decision to purchase a Peugeot 504 car for KSh80,000 while still studying. Reflecting on this choice, Osoro acknowledged it as a mistake, as it added complexity to the already challenging balance between work and school.
Despite this detour, Osoro’s career trajectory eventually led him to law and, subsequently, into the realm of politics. His tenacity and resilience in the face of adversity have defined his journey, showcasing how determination and strategic decision-making can transform a challenging start into a successful and impactful career.
