By Roselinder Achieng Maima, Communications Manager, Kenya
Every morning in Kisumu, Kenya, Alice Akinyi Odongo begins her day by getting her three children, aged 17, 13, and 9, ready for school. Once they’re out the door, she grabs her bag of solar lamps and clean cookstoves and heads into the heart of the Obunga Estate, ready to make her rounds. As the sole breadwinner, Alice is out early, ready to work.
“My children are my source of inspiration. I would like to see them pursue their studies at the university for a better future, something that I did not have myself. For this reason, I have to work hard to make enough money for their school fees and every other need.”
When Alice joined Solar Sister, she sold second-hand clothes but faced big losses. The opportunity to sell clean energy products full-time came at the right moment.
“I am forever grateful to Solar Sister for this opportunity,” she says. “I’ve been trained on how to manage and run my business. The community respects me more now. I don’t have to borrow money from friends like I used to.”
Alice has become well-known across Kisumu County, where she moves from market to market selling solar lamps and clean cookstoves. Her reputation and nickname are well-earned.
“They call me Mama Jiko Safi,” she says proudly. These stoves have changed my children’s health. I no longer use kerosene, which was harsh on their respiratory system. I can show my customers exactly how the products work and demonstrate their benefits to them.”
Alice does not want to return to formal employment; her business gives her flexibility and control.
“I’m my own boss. I work on my terms. The harder I work, the more I make, and I still have time for my family.”
Solar Sister training has helped her in more ways than just business.
“I was known for my short temper,” she laughs. “But now I’ve learned how to manage people and treat every customer with kindness. Every day, I get better.”
Alice’s message to other women? It’s simple: “Don’t give up. Keep pushing.”