Young Entrepreneur Achieves Dream Home with Imarika Sacco’s Support
Baraka Kitsao, a determined young man from Kilifi, has accomplished his goal of becoming a homeowner before the age of thirty, all thanks to his relentless effort and the unwavering support he received from Imarika Sacco.
Baraka’s journey commenced immediately after completing high school when he delved into the bustling life of a hawker in Mombasa. His trade involved the sale of bar soaps and various detergents to the city’s residents on the outskirts. Life presented numerous challenges, and Baraka found it hard to make ends meet, leading him to share a room with a friend due to difficulties in paying rent. Nevertheless, Baraka clung to his vision of home ownership, persevering through the tough times and dedicating himself to additional jobs, such as selling solar lamps.
“I became a member of Imarika Sacco and began setting aside a portion of my earnings as savings. My ambition was to secure funding for purchasing land and constructing my home by age thirty,” Baraka reminisces.
Seeing the high demand for solar lamps in rural areas, Baraka moved back to Kilifi. His sales increased, and so did his commissions, allowing him to save more. To reach more customers, he took his first loan of Ksh 50,000 from Imarika Sacco to buy a motorbike, significantly boosting his sales and earnings.
Over the past six years, Baraka has taken four loans from Imarika Sacco, which have helped him develop economically. Now, at twenty-nine, he owns a spacious house on a quarter-acre plot in Kibarani, just outside Kilifi town.
“Imarika Sacco has been instrumental in helping me achieve what I have today. I am truly grateful to God for their support. At my age, I am a property owner, and I believe joining the Sacco played a significant role in making this possible,” he says with deep appreciation.
In addition to his house, Baraka started a small business, including an MPESA service, although he faced setbacks when his shopkeeper mismanaged the profits. Undeterred, he remains determined to establish a chain store of household commodities.
“My dream of owning a company through Imarika Sacco is alive and remains my motivation,” Baraka says.
Cooperative stakeholders and the government are urging youths to join Saccos to access credit services and improve their livelihoods. Baraka believes that youths should take the initiative to join Saccos and advocate for favorable policies that support their economic aspirations.
“When one joins a Sacco while young and economically active, the Sacco will help enhance their vision and aid them in accomplishing their economic missions in a short period through different services and tailored credit products,” Baraka asserts.
Baraka’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the support of cooperative societies like Imarika Sacco in transforming lives.
