Turning Paper into Purpose: The Remarkable Journey of Kimani wa Makaratasi


By Steve El Sabai

Kimani wa Makaratasi stands out as one of Kenya and East Africa’s most inspiring entrepreneurs, a living example of resilience, innovation, and purpose driven enterprise.

His journey is a true grass to grace story. From humble beginnings, Kimani founded Jamii Products, a homegrown venture that has transformed the recycling landscape by turning simple manila paper into valuable, market ready products. What many dismissed as waste, he recognized as opportunity, laying the foundation for a business model rooted in sustainability, creativity, and social impact.

Through Jamii Products, Kimani has not only built a successful enterprise but has also demonstrated the power of the circular economy in creating jobs while protecting the environment. By recycling paper waste and giving it new life, the company has helped reduce environmental degradation while offering dignified livelihoods to many young people.

Beyond business, Kimani is deeply passionate about mentorship and youth empowerment. He has become a strong voice of encouragement for students who may not have performed as expected in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education examinations, urging them not to lose hope or self belief.

“Examination results do not define your future,” Kimani often emphasizes. “What truly matters is how you use your time, your skills, and your creativity.”

He encourages such learners to remain productive by enrolling in short, practical courses that focus on hands on skills rather than certificates alone. At Jamii Products, young people are exposed to training in recycling, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship, equipping them with employable skills and opening pathways to self reliance.

Kimani’s story challenges the conventional narrative of success and redefines what achievement looks like in modern Kenya. His journey proves that innovation does not always begin in boardrooms, and that sustainable solutions can emerge from the simplest ideas when driven by vision and determination.

Through his work, mentorship, and unwavering belief in second chances, Kimani wa Makaratasi continues to turn paper into purpose, reminding society that no effort is wasted and no dream is too small to grow.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

HRMPEB Certifies Record 1,130 New HR Professionals, Marking a Defining Moment for Kenya’s Workforce

Image
Reporting by Jameson Mutua  Nairobi, October 24, 2025 — Kenya’s Human Resource profession reached a historic milestone on Friday as the Human Resource Management Professionals Examination Board (HRMPEB) certified its largest cohort to date, 1,130 new Certified Human Resource Professionals (CHRPs). The landmark event, held at Jamhuri Park along Ngong Road, was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a powerful testament to dedication, resilience, and professional excellence. Speaking during the ceremony, officials emphasized that the certification marks more than just numbers; it symbolizes the growth of a profession that sits at the heart of organizational transformation. Each newly certified professional, they noted, represents countless hours of study, personal sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to advancing people management in Kenya. This year’s cohort represents a significant increase from 708 graduates in 2024, underscoring the rising confidence in the CH...
Read more

What President William Samoei Ruto said was not reckless. It was responsible. It was lawful. It was necessary

Image
  When the President said police should shoot in the leg, rush the terrorism suspect to hospital, then take them to court — he was not calling for extra-judicial killings. He was simply restating what the law already provides. Section 61 of the National Police Service Act gives officers the power to use reasonable and proportional force — including their firearms — to protect life and property. Those guns, bought with our taxes, are not ceremonial ornaments. They are tools of law enforcement — and when life, public safety or national stability is under threat, the police must not hesitate to use them appropriately. If a terrorist tries to burn down a police station or a looter attempts to torch a market or hospital — the police have a duty to act swiftly, firmly and lawfully. To disable, not to execute. To preserve life, not take it. But also, to protect innocent citizens, not watch helplessly. When a bullet departs the barrel of a gun, death , even though unintended, is one of the...
Read more

Journalists Assaulted During Chaotic DCP Party Launch in Nairobi

Image
  By East Africa Times Reporter   What was meant to be a political milestone quickly descended into disgrace and violence on Thursday, as the launch of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) in Nairobi turned chaotic and hostile, leaving at least two journalists assaulted and media equipment destroyed. Held along Musa Gitau Road, the event was marred by disorder, poor planning, and total disregard for safety and press freedom. Eyewitnesses say the violence broke out when unidentified individuals forced their way into the venue, leading to a stampede-like situation. Hired private security and bouncers retreated by firing gunshots in the air to control the goons. In the mayhem, the bouncers turned their aggression toward journalists, physically attacking them and forcing them to delete footage documenting the chaos. Two major media houses reportedly suffered equipment damage, further highlighting the reckless and lawless nature of the gathering. Shockingly, there was no police p...
Read more