Nakuru’s business environment has increasingly been characterised by some enterprises that launch with promise but struggle to survive beyond a short sprint.

While access to finance is often blamed, entrepreneurs say the real challenges run deeper, ranging from market access and talent retention to emotional burnout.

To address these challenges, entrepreneurs in Nakuru have decided to come up with an idea to explore ways of successfully navigating the murky business environment.

The idea, Bada Ya Kazi Entrepreneur Meetup, is a concept aimed at bringing together entrepreneurs from different sectors to unwind, connect, and openly discuss the often-unspoken pressures of running a business.

George Muturi who is one of the events facilitators says the platform was inspired by the need for a safe space where entrepreneurs can share experiences without judgment.

“Entrepreneurship is stressful and lonely sometimes. Not everyone understands the highs and lows. Sometimes the pressure is overwhelming, even when business is doing well,” he says.

George Muturi (in red) one of the individuals supporting Baada Ya Kazi event which aim to link and grow business in Nakuru through this monthly social event

Photo credit: COURTESY

He notes that one of the key conversations Baada Ya Kazi focuses on is alternative ways of raising capital beyond commercial banks and microfinance institutions.

He explains that this set up allows entrepreneurs to explore options such as partnerships, joint ventures, angel investment, revenue-sharing models, and collaborative marketing approaches that reduce reliance on debt.

These discussions are particularly relevant for small and medium enterprises seeking to scale without being crippled by loan repayments.

"Market access is another central theme. Rather than competing in isolation, entrepreneurs are encouraged to collaborate across related industries. For instance, during the first edition that happened on January 8, business owners in the health and fitness sector, ranging from gym operators and healthy food suppliers to gym apparel sellers, identified opportunities to jointly market their services, organise events, and share customer bases. By pooling resources, they could cut costs and expand their reach while targeting the same audience,” he explains.

Further he states that the meetup also tackles the challenge of attracting and retaining talent, especially as more employees belong to Generation Z (Gen Z). Entrepreneurs exchange ideas on building flexible, purpose-driven work cultures that support innovation and integrate emerging technologies.

"Discussions centre on how adaptive leadership and healthy workplace culture can drive productivity while keeping young talent engaged," he states

Nakuru Entrepreneurs socialize at the first edition of Baada Ya Kazi event held at Pheel Creations Hub on January 8 where they aim to link and grow business in Nakuru through this monthly social event.

Photo credit: COURTESY

Muturi is quick to note that mental wellbeing is a core pillar of the Baada ya Kazi. He describes entrepreneurship as “one of the thousand ways to die” if emotional health is neglected.

"Bada Ya Kazi intentionally incorporates games, casual conversations, and social interaction to help entrepreneurs decompress. Entrepreneurship is not a destination where you arrive and declare happiness. You find joy in the chase, in pushing forward every day,” he says.

As the event facilitator, he notes the platform is inclusive, welcoming aspiring entrepreneurs, startups less than six months old, growing businesses, and mature enterprises with multiple branches. Mentioning that this diversity allows for peer-to-peer mentorship, enabling experienced business owners to guide those still navigating early-stage challenges or

Organised by MG Innovation Hub in partnership with FACT (Forum for Action and Change Transformation), Bada Ya Kazi is not a formal association or lobby group. Muturi says attendance is free, with organisers covering operational costs. Noting that the aim is to build a supportive community rather than champion policies or regulations.

Held on the second Thursday of every month from 5 pm to about 9 pm, the meetup has already attracted interest beyond Nakuru with its first edition having 50 entrepreneurs onboard.

Wanjirukinuthia20@gmail.com

Baada ya Kazi Meet Up: Nakuru entrepreneurs explore strategies for navigating challenging business environment

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