Waste? A human resource professional is turning it into profit and creating jobs for youth

As Kenya grapples with environmental challenges, Camillus Kipchirchir, a young innovator Eldoret, is at the forefront of a movement that transforms waste into valuable resources.

This 27-year-old is the founder of Craffikka, a youth enterprise specialising in the upcycling of old tyres and windshields, thus championing environmental conservation.

Kipchirchir and his team employ a unique approach to upcycling materials into functional and artistic products. Old tires are transformed into stylish furniture, garden planters, and decorative items, while windshields are repurposed into eye-catching displays and art pieces.

“We take what others consider waste and give it new life,” he explains. “This not only reduces waste but also showcases the talent and creativity of our youth,” he says.
One of their standout products is the tire chairs, which are not only functional but also serve as a conversation starter about sustainability.

“It’s a great opportunity to educate them about waste management and environmental conservation.”

Kipchirchir’s journey began in 2020, with a simple observation: the abundance of discarded tires and windshields littering the streets of Eldoret, then as a human resource student at the University of Eldoret.

“I realised that these materials could be repurposed into something useful,” he explains.

Their clientele includes a diverse range of businesses, such as car bazaars, hotels, electrical shops, and service providers.

“We have been organising workshops and community events to raise awareness about waste management and encourage responsible consumption practices, to create a movement toward a cleaner, greener future,” Kipchirchir explains.

Through hands-on training, he says, employees learn how to transform waste materials into marketable products while also acquiring valuable business skills.

But like any entrepreneurial journey, Kipchirchir’s path has not been without challenges, with funding to scale the business emerging as a significant hurdle. “Starting a business can be tough, especially when it comes to accessing capital,” he shares.

To navigate this, he says, networking with local organisations and seeking partnerships, has come in handy. “Through this, I have benefitted from mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs who have guided him through the intricacies of running a business,” he notes.

As Craffikka continues to grow, Kipchirchir has ambitious plans for the future. He envisions expanding the product line to include more innovative items, all made from upcycled materials.

Kipchirchir is also committed to creating a training programme that not only teaches upcycling skills but also fosters entrepreneurship among young people in Eldoret
pongaji@ke.nationmedia.com