Kenya - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

At Roka Bags Africa, we upcycle redundant billboards and banners to create stylish, waterproof and eco-friendly bags such as backpacks for school, pencil pouches, and travel bags.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Roka Bags Africa is transforming the fashion landscape in Kenya and East Africa by upcycling discarded billboards, banners, and canvas into stylish, waterproof, and affordable bags. Our product line includes backpacks, pencil pouches, travel bags, sling bags, and laptop bags, made from durable, weather-resistant vinyl and lined with soft cotton and polyester. This innovative approach not only reduces waste but also extends the lifecycle of PVC materials from 3-6 months to 5-10 years. Operating at the intersection of fashion and waste management, we target Kenya’s urban population, aiming to capture 5% of a 10.47 million-strong market within three years, projecting $50,000 in annual revenue. Our main competitors—Denri, and Unleash—lack our sustainability focus. We source raw materials from advertising companies and waste pickers, transforming them at our Mombasa workshop. Our distribution channels include physical stores in Mombasa and Moshi, Tanzania, and online p

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

Roka Bags Africa addresses the pressing issue of waste management in Kenya and East Africa, specifically the environmental impact of discarded PVC billboards and banners. These materials, when not properly managed, contribute to significant environmental degradation. PVC waste is particularly harmful as it does not biodegrade and can persist in the environment for many years. When burned, it releases toxic chemicals that contribute to air pollution and global warming. The fashion industry, notorious for its environmental footprint, often overlooks sustainable practices. By upcycling these materials into durable, stylish, and waterproof bags, This innovative approach not only diverts waste from landfills but also reduces the need for virgin materials, promoting a circular economy. Furthermore, Roka Bags Africa empowers local communities by creating job opportunities in the collection, design, and manufacturing processes.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Environmental Sustainability: By upcycling discarded billboards and banners into stylish and durable bags, Roka Bags Africa significantly reduces PVC waste, which is otherwise harmful to the environment. This process prevents PVC from ending up in landfills or being incinerated, both of which contribute to pollution and environmental degradation. The extended lifecycle of these materials, from a few months to up to 10 years, further amplifies the positive environmental impact. Economic Empowerment: The business creates job opportunities for local communities, from waste collection to the design and manufacturing processes. This not only supports economic development but also provides valuable skills and employment to youth and marginalized groups. By sourcing materials and producing locally, Roka Bags Africa fosters a sustainable economic ecosystem that benefits the wider community. Affordable and High-Quality Fashion: Roka Bags Africa offers a range of affordable, high-quality bags.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Environmentally Conscious Consumers: Our primary target includes individuals who prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly products. These consumers are typically young professionals, urban dwellers, and students. Educational Institutions and Corporations; W target partnerships with schools and companies for bulk orders and merchandise. Local Communities and Workforce: We focus on creating job opportunities for the local population in Kenya and East Africa, particularly in areas like Mombasa. This includes employing youth, marginalized groups, and skilled artisans in the collection, design, manufacturing and marketing. By providing stable employment and valuable skills training, we empower these communities economically. Fashion Enthusiasts: Our products also appeal to fashion-forward individuals who appreciate unique, stylish, and functional accessories. The incorporation of African-wear fabrics like Ankara adds a cultural and aesthetic appeal, attracting customers Global Market

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2020-01-31

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

6

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

4

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Hellen Mwanzia (Model and Founder, Hailey Model Management): Skills: Fashion Marketing, Event Coordination Experience: Coordinates fashion marketing events and promotes Roka Bags to corporations. Shanaria Evans (Musician and Climate Champion): Skills: Music, Environmental Advocacy Experience: Shanaria uses her platform to raise awareness about environmental issues. Stephanie Maseki (Actor): Skills: Acting, Public Speaking, Brand Ambassadorship Experience: A renowned actor with a strong public presence, Stephanie brings her influence and public speaking skills to Roka Bags. Ali Swaleh (Designer): Skills: Bag Design, Fashion Experience: Over 15 years in the fashion industry, specializing in bag design. Brings creativity and craftsmanship to the production of Roka Bags. Abdalla Mohamed (Photographer): Skills: Photography, Visual Content Creation Experience: Over 10 years in photography. Dr Hatimy (Co-founder Baus Taka) Skills: Strategy Experience: More than 8 years in waste management

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

https://www.instagram.com/rokabagsafrica?utm_source=qr&igsh=MXNnY212bzhhM2RoYQ==

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Fashion and Manufacturing

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

4

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

4

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

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

4

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

4

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

4

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

We create local employment opportunities in our workshops and retail outlets, particularly for youth and marginalized groups, fostering economic empowerment. By sourcing materials locally and promoting sustainable practices like upcycling, we contribute to economic growth and environmental sustainability simultaneously. Our focus on skills development, gender equality in hiring, and community engagement further enhances inclusive economic growth. Through these efforts, we aim to not only achieve business success but also create lasting positive impacts on our workforce and community.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

4

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

4

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Responsible Consumption and Production through our innovative upcycling practices and sustainable business model. By repurposing discarded billboards and banners into stylish, durable bags, we reduce waste that would otherwise contribute to environmental degradation. Our use of local materials and partnerships with suppliers who prioritize sustainability further minimize our ecological footprint. We promote responsible consumption by offering long-lasting, waterproof products that encourage customers to make environmentally conscious choices. Through education and advocacy, we aim to inspire a shift towards sustainable lifestyles and contribute positively to global efforts for responsible production and consumption patterns.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Climate Action through our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. By upcycling billboards and banners into waterproof bags, we prevent these materials from ending up in landfills or being incinerated, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to mitigating climate change. Our operations prioritize energy efficiency and waste reduction, further minimizing our carbon footprint. We promote awareness about climate change through our products, educating consumers about the importance of sustainable consumption. Additionally, our partnerships with local communities and advocacy for eco-friendly practices demonstrate our dedication to fostering climate resilience and sustainability for future generations.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

By upcycling billboards and banners into bags, we prevent these materials from entering waterways and oceans, thereby reducing marine pollution. Our commitment to using locally sourced and sustainable materials minimizes the environmental impact on aquatic ecosystems. We advocate for marine conservation through educational initiatives and partnerships that raise awareness about the importance of preserving marine life. By promoting responsible consumption and production, we contribute to safeguarding marine biodiversity and ensuring the health and sustainability of life below water for present and future generations.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

4

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

3

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

4

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

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

4

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

5

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

6

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

4

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

6

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

5

05.08 Justification

Roka Bags Africa stands out for its unique and innovative approach to fashion and waste management. By upcycling discarded billboards and banners into stylish, waterproof bags, we tackle environmental pollution creatively, turning waste into valuable products. This method extends the life of PVC materials from months to years, reducing landfill and incineration impacts. Our designs incorporate vibrant African wear (ankara) fabrics, merging traditional aesthetics with contemporary style, which is not only visually appealing but also culturally significant. We employ a cost-plus pricing strategy, making sustainable fashion affordable and accessible to a broader audience. Our robust online presence and collaborations with influencers further differentiate us in the market. Additionally, our commitment to community engagement and education on sustainability practices showcases our dedication to creating lasting social and environmental impact. Through these innovative strategies, Roka Bag

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Roka Bags Africa's main competitors include Denri and Unleash, all of which offer various bags for travel, office, and outdoor activities. While these competitors have strong brand awareness, and high-quality products, Roka Bags Africa distinguishes itself through several unique aspects: Sustainability: Unlike our competitors, we focus on upcycling billboards and banners, significantly reducing environmental waste. This commitment to sustainability adds a unique value proposition. Innovative Design: Our bags incorporate vibrant African wear (ankara) fabrics, blending traditional and modern aesthetics and also celebrates African culture. Affordability: Our cost-plus pricing strategy ensures our products are competitively priced while maintaining quality and sustainability. Community Impact: We actively engage in community development by creating employment Unique Storytelling: Our brand story, rooted in transforming waste into stylish functional bags

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

Empowerment Programs: We organize workshops and training sessions specifically designed for women, providing them with essential skills in business management, digital marketing, and sustainable fashion design. Mentorship and Support: We offer mentorship opportunities where experienced female entrepreneurs provide guidance and support to aspiring women business owners. This includes one-on-one mentorship, group coaching sessions, and networking events to help them navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. Collaborative Projects: Roka Bags collaborates with female-led businesses and artisans for various projects, such as creating unique bag designs. Inclusive Hiring Practices: We prioritize hiring women at all levels of our organization, from production to management. Partnerships with Women's Organizations: We partner with local and international organizations focused on women’s economic empowerment. Advocacy and Awareness: Through our social media platforms and community events.