Kajiado: Maasai Woman Starts Car Wash Business to Educate Kids after Husband Dies
- Maria Salash did not give up after her husband died, and she was left to become the breadwinner of her family
- Instead of seeking menial jobs or appealing for help, the hardworking woman opened a car and motorcycle wash business
- The Kajiado woman opened up about her day-to-day business life as she highlighted crucial loopholes in her operations
A woman from Tinga, Oltepesi, Kajiado West, has overcome odds and broken barriers in her pursuit of providing for her family.
Source: Youtube
Maria Salash ventured into a business that has earned her criticism from both the opposite gender and fellow women.
The hardworking woman opened a car and motorcycle wash business to provide for her children and ensure they go to school.
What was Salash doing before opening car wash?
She took this step following the death of her husband, who had been the family's breadwinner. The livestock she had relied on was also affected by climate change.
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“Every morning I wake up and come to work as usual. Business is a gamble. I come and wait for customers. God has blessed me so much that I do not lack them. I wait for cars and motorcycles, but mostly I get motorcycles,” she said.
“What made me open this business was the death of my husband, who was the one feeding and caring for the family. After his death, he left me behind with the children, who are also going to school. We were working as cattle herders. I thought I should start this business so that I can earn something and educate my children.”
How is Salash perceived working at a car wash?
Salash believed the car wash business would be the best option, contrary to the opinion of many who claimed it is a male-dominated space.
She said no Maasai woman had dared to break norms by venturing into such a business, which has improved her economically.
“Many see me as a beggar and think I’m doing a lowly job. Many people ask me why I did not open a salon or start a business that is more suitable for a mum. But I have seen that the car wash business has sustained me and helped me a lot. I have many customers, especially boda boda operators,” she added.
What challenges does Salash encounter?
Every good has its bad side, and Salash, despite praising her flourishing business, said it is full of challenges.
She shared that she does not have a large water storage facility, only a small water drum, which limits her operations.
“I also do not have a proper machine to pump water. The one I have uses gasoline and sometimes breaks down. When it does, I take it to the technician, and other times it can remain there for a month. Another challenge is the water supply. It hinders my business due to the small water tank,” she said.
How long has Salash been a widow?
Since starting her business, Salash said she has seen many changes, including her children continuing their education.
She mentioned that one child is in Grade Six, another in Grade Eight, and another in university.
“It has been 10 years since my husband died, and we have progressed very well. I plan to expand my business and even employ more people,” she said.
Source: Youtube
Top 30 profitable businesses to start in Kenya with KSh 50,000 capital
In another story, TUKO.co.ke highlighted 30 profitable businesses one could start with KSh 50,000 in Kenya.
One of the businesses was opening a general shop or kiosk, since many Kenyan households rely on nearby retail shops for household items.
However, one must identify an ideal location before obtaining the necessary license to start the business.
Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
