NAIROBI, Kenya- In a vibrant effort to champion green entrepreneurship, the BeGreen Africa Entrepreneur Workshop recently convened in Nairobi, Kenya.
This initiative aims to empower young entrepreneurs in waste management, equipping them with the tools to develop comprehensive business plans and innovative solutions for sustainable futures.
A Collaborative Green Movement
The BeGreen Africa Entrepreneur Workshop, a collaborative effort by UNICEF, the Tony Elumelu Foundation, and UBA Kenya, focuses on fostering innovative waste management businesses.
This pilot program, co-created by The Tony Elumelu Foundation, UNICEF Generation Unlimited (GenU), IKEA Foundation, and young green entrepreneurs, aims to build a sustainable, youth-led green entrepreneurship initiative in Kenya’s waste sector.
Harnessing Kenya’s Youth Potential
Kenya was chosen as the pilot country due to its dynamic entrepreneurial landscape and urgent need for sustainable waste management solutions.
The country’s burgeoning youth population presents a unique opportunity to drive the green revolution.
The BeGreen initiative aims to mentor and train 1,000 entrepreneurs across Kenya, with 120 of them set to receive seed funding to launch their green business ventures.
Ms. Mary Mulili, CEO/MD of UBA Kenya, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “At UBA Kenya, we believe that empowering young entrepreneurs is key to driving sustainable development and economic growth. The BeGreen Africa initiative is a commitment to fostering innovative solutions in the waste management sector.”
Sandra Simbiri, UNICEF Generation Unlimited (GenU) Programme Specialist, echoed this sentiment:
“This program is not only about creating jobs but about instilling a sense of responsibility towards our planet. By supporting these young entrepreneurs, we are investing in the future of Kenya and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change and environmental degradation.”
The workshop provided entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge to develop innovative, sustainable business ideas and comprehensive business plans.
New and innovative technologies are essential to creating ‘green jobs’ that tackle climate change.
