Smokies, eggs feed group's passion for prosperity

It is usually a big challenge for people living with any form of disability in this country. Infrastructure is not friendly to them and opportunities are scarce.

Christopher Simiyu, 19, and Clement Carvaino, 21, are deaf and dumb.

Christopher Simiyu, 19, and Clement Carvaino, 21. 

(PHOTO: GEOFFREY ARICH/STANDARD)

But for the two, who hail from Kakamega County, their disability is not a barrier to business.

The two former students of St Mary's School for the Deaf-Nyangoma, and six others, are in the business of selling smokies and boiled eggs at Kakamega's bus station.

Their business took off last January.

The eight young men came up with the idea of doing a business that guaranteed them a steady income. So when they got a grant from Farmers' Choice to sell the sausages, their dream came true.

"We have learnt to bank our profits as well as provide for some of our needs like rent and food," jots down Christopher. Our interview with them is in writing; I write down the questions and they respond the same way.

On a daily basis, the eight who work jointly, make a profit of Sh1, 600 on average from the sale of boiled eggs and smokies. On a weekly basis, their total profit amounts to Sh11, 200 before deduction of expenses. Meaning that monthly, the group makes more than Sh40, 000.

In their silent world, they have learnt to serve their customers with dignity and respect. To curb misunderstandings, they have a price tag sticker on their trolleys. As others lament and waste their productive time, the eight have moved on, their bond strengthened by a common cause that sees beyond disability.

"We all have families. We took the initiative to know our families and our homes," says Clement.

The group still has not encountered any challenge too difficult to handle because they have created a customer base. They are optimistic that through their savings they will venture into the hotel business.