Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Ajira Yangu is a platform that connects customers with reliable, pre-screened professionals for services like electrical work, plumbing, mechanics, and driving. Our project aims to simplify the hiring process for skilled labor, ensuring trust and quality

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Ajira Yangu is a digital platform aimed at formalizing the casual labor market in Kenya, known as the Jua Kali industry. We connect users with pre-screened, skilled professionals such as electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and drivers. Each expert is geo-mapped, allowing customers to find professionals based on their location for quicker service. Our platform features detailed profiles, user reviews, and a rating system to foster trust and informed decision-making. By formalizing this sector, we aim to create more jobs and improve service quality across Kenya.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem Ajira Yangu aims to solve is the informality and unreliability in Kenya's casual labor market, commonly known as the Jua Kali industry. Many customers struggle to find trustworthy and skilled professionals for essential services, leading to inconsistent service quality and mistrust. Our platform addresses this by providing a centralized, reliable database of pre-screened experts, complete with geo-mapping for location-based searches, detailed profiles, and user reviews. This formalization not only enhances service delivery but also creates more job opportunities for skilled professionals

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

Reliability and Trust: Customers have access to a pool of pre-screened, skilled professionals, ensuring they hire reliable and trustworthy experts for their needs. Geo-Mapped Convenience: The platform’s geo-mapping feature allows users to find professionals based on their location, leading to faster and more efficient service delivery. Job Creation and Formalization: By formalizing the casual labor market, Ajira Yangu not only creates more job opportunities for skilled professionals but also enhances the overall service quality in Kenya’s Jua Kali industry.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Customers: Individuals and businesses seeking reliable, skilled professionals for services such as electrical work, plumbing, mechanics, and driving. These customers benefit from easy access to vetted experts, location-based searches, and user reviews ensuring high-quality service. Skilled Professionals: Experts in the Jua Kali industry who are looking for more job opportunities and a formalized market structure. Ajira Yangu helps them increase their visibility, gain more clients, and build trust through verified profiles and reviews.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-01-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

3

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

1

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

The other two owners of Ajira Yangu are both 33-year-old males with extensive experience in their respective fields: Owner 1: With a background in IT and software development, he brings technical expertise to the platform, ensuring robust and user-friendly digital infrastructure. His experience includes several successful projects in tech startups, focusing on system architecture and user experience design. Owner 2: A finance expert with a strong track record in financial management, strategic planning, and market analysis. His expertise ensures the financial stability and growth of Ajira Yangu, helping to scale the business and manage resources effectively.

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

https://ajirayangu.co.ke/, (Facebook) https://www.facebook.com/ajirayanguke,

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Service Marketplace

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu contributes significantly to the goal of ending poverty by creating job opportunities for skilled professionals in the Jua Kali sector. By formalizing the casual labor market and connecting professionals with reliable, consistent work, we help them achieve financial stability and improve their livelihoods. The platform enables professionals to access more clients, secure fair wages, and build sustainable careers, thereby lifting themselves and their families out of poverty. Additionally, by promoting a fair and transparent marketplace, we ensure that even the most vulnerable workers have access to economic opportunities.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

While Ajira Yangu is not directly involved in agriculture or food production, it indirectly supports the Zero Hunger goal by increasing the income and economic stability of skilled professionals. As these professionals secure more reliable work and better wages through our platform, they are better able to provide for their families, ensuring access to sufficient and nutritious food. By boosting the local economy and reducing poverty, we contribute to greater food security and improved nutrition for the communities we serve.

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu promotes good health and well-being indirectly by improving the economic conditions of skilled professionals in the Jua Kali sector. Financial stability and increased income through reliable work opportunities enable these individuals to afford better healthcare services, nutritious food, and healthier living conditions. Moreover, the platform encourages a safer working environment by ensuring that only qualified and vetted professionals are hired, reducing the risks associated with unskilled labor. Enhanced economic security and better access to healthcare contribute to the overall well-being and quality of life for our users and their families.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu contributes to the Quality Education goal by creating economic opportunities that enable skilled professionals to invest in their own and their families’ education. With increased financial stability, professionals can afford to enroll in further training and skill development courses, enhancing their qualifications and career prospects. Additionally, the increased household income allows parents to provide better educational opportunities for their children, ensuring they receive quality education and lifelong learning opportunities. By fostering an environment where continuous learning and skill enhancement are possible, Ajira Yangu supports the broader goal of inclusive and equitable education for all.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu is committed to promoting gender equality by providing equal opportunities for women in the Jua Kali sector. The platform ensures that female professionals have the same visibility and access to job opportunities as their male counterparts. By creating a fair and transparent marketplace, we empower women to showcase their skills, secure reliable work, and earn fair wages. Additionally, our platform actively encourages and supports women to join traditionally male-dominated trades, breaking gender stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. Through these efforts, Ajira Yangu contributes to the empowerment of women and girls, helping them achieve economic independence and advance their careers.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal by connecting users with skilled professionals, including plumbers and sanitation experts. These professionals play a crucial role in ensuring the proper installation and maintenance of water and sanitation systems in homes and businesses. By providing reliable access to qualified experts, our platform helps communities maintain and improve their water and sanitation infrastructure, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the population. While not directly focused on water and sanitation, our service supports the sustainable management of these essential resources through better maintenance and infrastructure development

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu indirectly supports the goal of affordable and clean energy by facilitating access to skilled electricians and renewable energy experts. These professionals can assist in the installation and maintenance of energy-efficient systems and renewable energy solutions such as solar panels. By ensuring that customers have access to qualified experts, our platform helps promote the adoption of sustainable energy practices and technologies. Although our primary focus is not on energy solutions, we contribute to the broader goal of making modern and sustainable energy accessible to more people through better service delivery and reliable expertise.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu significantly contributes to promoting decent work and economic growth by formalizing the casual labor market and providing skilled professionals with reliable job opportunities. By connecting experts such as electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and drivers with customers, we ensure they have access to consistent and fair employment. This platform fosters economic growth by empowering skilled workers to earn a stable income, enhancing their quality of life and economic security. Additionally, by facilitating transparent and trustworthy transactions, Ajira Yangu promotes a more inclusive and sustainable economy, supporting the broader goal of productive employment and decent work for all.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu contributes to industry innovation and infrastructure by providing a digital platform that revolutionizes the way skilled professionals connect with customers. Our platform fosters innovation by leveraging technology to streamline the hiring process, making it easier for users to find and hire qualified experts. This digital infrastructure promotes inclusivity by ensuring that skilled workers in the informal sector, such as the Jua Kali industry, have access to broader markets and more job opportunities. By enhancing the efficiency and reliability of service delivery, Ajira Yangu supports the development of resilient infrastructure and sustainable industrialization, contributing to the overall economic growth and modernization of Kenya's labor market.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu plays a crucial role in reducing inequalities by providing equal access to job opportunities for skilled professionals across different socio-economic backgrounds. Our platform bridges the gap between the informal and formal labor markets, allowing individuals from underserved communities to showcase their skills and secure fair employment. By promoting transparency and fairness in the hiring process, we ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has an equal chance to succeed. Additionally, our geo-mapping feature enables professionals from various regions to find work locally, reducing regional disparities and promoting inclusive economic growth. Through these efforts, Ajira Yangu actively contributes to reducing inequality within Kenya.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu contributes to making cities and communities more sustainable by facilitating access to reliable, skilled professionals who help maintain and improve urban infrastructure. Our platform connects residents with qualified experts in fields such as plumbing, electrical work, and mechanics, ensuring that essential services are efficiently provided and maintained. This enhances the overall quality of life, safety, and resilience of communities. By promoting local employment and economic growth, we support the development of inclusive and sustainable urban areas. Additionally, by ensuring that all professionals are vetted and trusted, we foster safer and more cohesive communities.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu supports responsible consumption and production by connecting users with skilled professionals who can repair, maintain, and optimize the use of existing resources. By facilitating access to reliable electricians, plumbers, and mechanics, we encourage the maintenance and repair of products rather than their disposal, promoting a more sustainable and circular economy. Additionally, our platform encourages professionals to adopt environmentally friendly practices, ensuring that services provided are not only efficient but also sustainable. While our primary focus is on service delivery, we contribute to responsible consumption and production by reducing waste and extending the lifespan of goods and infrastructure.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

5

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu contributes to climate action by enabling the hiring of skilled professionals who can implement and maintain energy-efficient systems and practices. By connecting customers with experts in renewable energy and energy-saving technologies, such as solar panel installers and electricians specializing in energy-efficient solutions, we help reduce carbon footprints and promote sustainable practices. Although our primary focus is on service delivery, by facilitating access to these experts, we support efforts to combat climate change and mitigate its impacts. Additionally, promoting repair and maintenance over replacement reduces waste, further contributing to environmental sustainability.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu primarily focuses on connecting skilled professionals with customers for various services such as plumbing, electrical work, and mechanics within urban and rural communities. While our platform promotes sustainability and responsible consumption on land, it does not directly address issues related to the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. Therefore, our contribution to the Life Below Water goal is limited, as our services and impact are not directly connected to marine environments or resources.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu contributes to the Life on Land goal indirectly by promoting sustainable practices among the professionals on our platform. By connecting users with skilled professionals who implement and maintain eco-friendly solutions, we help reduce environmental degradation. For example, our platform supports services that encourage the repair and maintenance of existing infrastructure, reducing the need for new resource extraction and minimizing waste. Additionally, by fostering economic stability, we enable professionals to make more sustainable choices in their work and personal lives, supporting broader environmental conservation efforts. While our direct impact on terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity is limited, our focus on sustainability and responsible resource use contributes to the overall health of land environments.

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

6

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions by creating a transparent and accountable platform for hiring skilled professionals. By vetting all professionals and enabling customer reviews, we ensure that our services are reliable and trustworthy, fostering a sense of security and fairness among users. This transparency reduces the likelihood of fraud and exploitation, contributing to a more just society. Additionally, by formalizing the informal labor market, we support the development of inclusive institutions that recognize and uphold the rights and contributions of all workers. Our platform encourages ethical business practices and helps build a more equitable and accountable service industry in Kenya.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu contributes to strengthening partnerships for sustainable development by collaborating with various stakeholders, including local businesses, professional associations, and community organizations. These partnerships help us enhance the quality and reach of our services, ensuring that we can provide reliable and skilled professionals to a broader audience. By working together with these partners, we promote shared goals of economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development. Our platform also facilitates knowledge exchange and capacity building among professionals, fostering a cooperative environment that benefits all parties involved. Through these collaborative efforts, Ajira Yangu supports the broader aim of revitalizing global partnerships for sustainable development.

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

3

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

Ajira Yangu is an innovative platform that significantly improves upon existing services in the casual labor market by leveraging new technology to connect skilled professionals with customers. Unlike traditional methods, our geo-mapping feature allows users to find nearby professionals quickly and efficiently, addressing a demand that has not been fully satisfied by other services. While our concept builds on existing service marketplaces, it extends their range by providing a more transparent, reliable, and user-friendly experience. By formalizing the informal Jua Kali sector, we offer a new version of an old service, bringing structure, trust, and consistency to the market. This unique approach not only enhances service delivery but also empowers skilled professionals by providing them with consistent job opportunities and fair wages, ultimately contributing to the economic and social development of the region.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Ajira Yangu's main potential competitors include platforms like TaskRabbit, Upwork, and local classifieds such as OLX and Jiji. However, what sets us apart is our focus on the formalization of the Jua Kali sector in Kenya through a highly localized and user-friendly platform. Unlike TaskRabbit and Upwork, which are foreign companies catering to a broad international audience and do not focus specifically on casual laborers in Kenya, Ajira Yangu addresses the unique needs of the Kenyan market by offering geo-mapped services that allow customers to find nearby professionals quickly and efficiently. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that only skilled and reliable professionals are listed, fostering trust and reliability. Unlike local classifieds like OLX and Jiji, which serve as general marketplaces, Ajira Yangu is dedicated to skilled labor, providing a more focused and specialized service.

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Yes.