From August 25–29, 2023, the Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC) conducted a transformative bootcamp session to empower Kenyan entrepreneurs in the waste management sector. As a social impact organization in the climate space, KCIC supports micro and small enterprises by driving innovation and sustainable practices. One of its flagship initiatives, the Sustainable Waste Innovation for a Future in Transition (SWIFT) program, equips entrepreneurs with the tools to strengthen waste management systems and embrace circular economy approaches. It was under this program that KCIC hosted the intensive five-day training in Nairobi, bringing together 53 selected clients who were eager to build their technical and operational capacity, an area where gaps had been identified in their business models.
The bootcamp aimed to provide onboarding guidance and knowledge to the 2nd cohort of the SWIFT program while addressing the challenges hindering a circular economy. The program sought to promote knowledge and adoption of circular economy principles and standards, support enterprises in aligning with legal and policy frameworks relevant to waste management and compliance, and enhance business models, team dynamics, and market expansion strategies for incubator- and accelerator-stage clients.
Led by an experienced team of mentors, the bootcamp featured a comprehensive agenda designed to provide entrepreneurs with essential knowledge and skills. “We are thrilled to kick off this transformative bootcamp, bringing together passionate entrepreneurs to explore the immense potential of waste management in promoting a circular economy. I therefore call upon all the participants to seize this opportunity to engage openly and make maximum use of the trainers and mentors present, who have vast knowledge in their various areas of expertise,” noted Felix Mwaki, Director of Client Services at KCIC, as he officially opened the training.
This groundbreaking training was conducted both theoretically and practically and was facilitated by renowned experts drawn from Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC), National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Organisation (KEPRO), and Environmental Institute of Kenya (EIK). It covered the following modules: Regulatory Framework, Taxation Policy, GESI, HR Framework, Market Expansion, Impact Reporting, Operational Efficiency, Financial Management, and Investor Readiness. Throughout the bootcamp, participants had opportunities for networking and collaboration. The breaks allowed entrepreneurs to connect, exchange ideas, and foster potential partnerships within the industry. These networking sessions were instrumental in creating a supportive environment where participants could learn from each other and explore collaboration opportunities. “This training was very much needed. I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the IKEA Foundation and KCIC for organizing this remarkable bootcamp. The knowledge, insights, and networking opportunities we gained throughout the sessions and field visits have been invaluable,” said Neeta Omwanza, General Manager, Getech Maxnav Limited.
One of the highlights of the bootcamp was the field visits, which provided a platform for entrepreneurs to benchmark against other successful enterprises who shared insights on the challenges and opportunities in the sector. These included businesses in plastic recycling (PolyAfric, Shizuka & Noma Green), organic waste conversion (Yammie Fresh, Ecodudu & Organic Fields), and eco-packaging (Bottle Logistics), among others. The visits not only boosted the participants’ confidence but also helped refine their business strategies.
“As we come to the end of the five-day training, I am truly inspired by the dedication and growth I have witnessed among all the participants. Your eagerness to embrace new ideas and drive sustainable development in the waste management sector is commendable,” shared Christine Mbaabu, Program Manager, SWIFT, KCIC, during her closing remarks.
Looking ahead, KCIC anticipates that the participants will apply the lessons from the bootcamp to scale their enterprises, enhance compliance with environmental policies, and contribute to Kenya’s broader transition toward a circular economy.
