Kericho: At a busy corner of Kericho town, near the Kiprugut Chumo Stadium, the rhythmic sound of a machete slicing through thick sugarcane draws a steady stream of customers eager to enjoy the finger-licking slices sold by Fred Osiro from his wheelbarrow.
According to Kenya News Agency, the 35-year-old sugarcane seller’s simple trade has grown into a thriving business and become a symbol of resilience and daily survival in the streets of Kericho. His sugarcane slices are a favorite among passersby due to his cleanliness and friendly demeanor.
Speaking exclusively to Kenya News Agency, Osiro shared that he sets up his makeshift stall early each morning at around 6:30 a.m. near the matatu stage, armed with freshly harvested sugarcane, a sharp panga, and a wide smile that draws in customers. He credits these customers with tremendously uplifting his life since he started the venture.
By midday, the sweet scent of peeled sugarcane wafts through the air, luring schoolchildren, boda boda riders, matatu drivers, and market vendors. Osiro earns at least Sh1,500 daily from his sales.
‘I started this business five years ago with only Sh200. I bought a few sugarcanes, stood by the roadside, and hoped for the best. What began as a temporary hustle has grown into a full-time source of income that supports my wife and children,’ said Osiro.
He sources his sugarcane from Kipkelion and ensures he has enough stock to last the week, keeping it fresh and ready for consumption.
‘For now, I prefer storing sugarcane at home since it’s safe and cost-effective, but in future, when I expand the business, I may consider renting a stall in town for stocking,’ he added.
Despite challenges such as heavy rains and scorching sun, Osiro remains committed to his work, saying the job has taught him patience, discipline, and customer care.
‘Sometimes, it’s not just about selling. It’s about listening to people, joking with them, and creating lasting relationships that keep them coming back,’ he remarked.
On weekends and market days, Osiro sells double his usual stock. He now plans to expand and diversify his business to serve more people.
‘Very soon, I will invest in a proper juice stall with blenders and branded packaging. I want to grow and add value to the sugarcane,’ he said.
Osiro also dreams of building a proper structure where customers can sit comfortably and enjoy fresh juice and fruits. He noted that afternoon rains often disrupt his operations.
His journey is not only a story of financial growth but also one of resilience and determination, having emerged from a period of joblessness. He has carved out a profitable livelihood through hard work and now urges unemployed youth to seek honest ways of earning a living.
‘I only reached Standard 8 due to financial constraints, as my parents couldn’t afford to support my education. Since then, I’ve hustled relentlessly, trying various informal jobs like construction site work and loading. Eventually, I discovered my niche in business, and today, I can proudly say I’m content with the path I chose,’ said Osiro.