Kenya - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Mviringo, inspired by the circular economy, was founded to tackle the rising issue of electronic waste. Recognizing the unsustainable increase in e-waste due to rapid technological advancements, the founders aimed to extend the life cycle of electronics.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

We recognized that the rapid turnover of electronic devices and appliances, driven by constant technological advancements and consumer demand, was leading to an unsustainable increase in e-waste. Mviringo envisions extending the life cycle of electronics, reducing environmental impact, and providing economic benefits to communities worldwide.

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

The problem lies in the unsustainable increase in e-waste, which poses significant environmental and health risks. By promoting a circular economy, Mviringo seeks to extend the life cycle of electronics, thereby reducing the amount of e-waste generated. This initiative not only helps in conserving valuable resources but also makes technology more accessible and affordable to a broader audience. Ultimately, Mviringo aims to mitigate the environmental impact of e-waste while providing economic benefits to communities worldwide, fostering a more sustainable and equitable future.

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

Mviringo's services offer significant benefits that address key societal and environmental challenges. First, by purchasing and reselling second-hand electronic appliances, Mviringo effectively reduces e-waste, conserving natural resources and minimizing pollution, thus supporting global environmental sustainability efforts. Second, consumers benefit from substantial economic savings, gaining access to high-quality, affordable electronics, which reduces the financial burden of purchasing new devices. This increased accessibility is especially crucial for low-income communities, helping to bridge the digital divide. Third, Mviringo extends the lifespan of electronic devices through refurbishment and maintenance, maximizing their utility and promoting a culture of reuse and sustainability aligned with circular economy principles.

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

The primary beneficiaries are low-income communities, as Mviringo provides affordable, high-quality second-hand electronics, making technology accessible to individuals and families who may not have the financial means to purchase new devices. Environmentally conscious consumers, who are aware of and concerned about environmental issues, will benefit from Mviringo's sustainable approach. These consumers can make responsible purchasing decisions that align with their values, reducing their carbon footprint and supporting the circular economy. Educational institutions and non-profits also stand to gain significantly from Mviringo's services. Schools, colleges, and non-profit organizations often operate on tight budgets, and Mviringo's affordable electronics can help these institutions equip their students and members with the necessary technology, thereby enhancing educational and operational capabilities. Moreover, businesses seeking sustainable solutions can benefit from the idea.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-01-01

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

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

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

Sharon Anyango is a Digital Marketer and Project Manager Associate with one year of experience. She brings a blend of marketing skills and project management expertise to the table. Sharon is passionate about environmental sustainability. She actively engages in community development through actively participating in youth-led clean-ups and promoting anti-littering habits. Sharon has a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Chemistry and her commitment to social change led her to pursue a Social Entrepreneurship course at UBC Sauder- Canada, where she honed the ability to inspire community members and maximize available resources to foster wealth creation and improve livelihoods.

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

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

e) Secondary commodities (cars and parts, consumer durables and apparel, retail)

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

2

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

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

2

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

2

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

3

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

3

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

2

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

5

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Our business model generates employment in multiple sectors, including logistics, customer service, and technical support, promoting economic stability and growth.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

3

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

2

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Our company collaborates with local players carrying out e-waste collection and disposal services.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Our business model is premised on extending the life of appliances. By promoting the resale and reuse of electronics, we help reduce the demand for new products, thereby conserving raw materials and reducing manufacturing emissions. Encouraging consumers to buy second-hand electronics significantly decreases the amount of e-waste, contributing to a more sustainable consumption pattern.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Manufacturing is among the biggest contributor of greenhouse gas emission. The reduction in production of new electronics leads to lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with manufacturing and disposal processes. Also, By diverting electronics from landfills and encouraging their reuse, we contribute to lowering the carbon footprint of the technology sector.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

2

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

We plan to partner with NGOs, educational institutions, and other organizations to promote sustainability in electronics and support global efforts towards achieving the SDGs.

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.

4

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

2

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

6

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

6

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.

4

05.08 Justification

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

People have always been selling their household items through mediums such as Jiji or facebook. The model is however flawed since at times people are in dire need of money and do not have the patience for waiting their item to be noticed. Our business model is different since we purchase the items that are sent to us on spot and on sell onto the market at a fairly discounted price. Also, for people buying from us, they get to have a chance to sample a variety of products without having to scroll across several platforms. Lastly, we plan to have a physical store/ warehouse where someone can come to view the products. This is basically to bridge the trust divide between us and buyers.

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

Yes I'm roping in females who are capable to help me build the idea.