John Njoroge, a 42-year-old matatu tout known as 'Macha', has been working in the industry for 18 years. Despite the physical demands of the job, Macha has managed to save Sh1,000 daily and invest in various businesses. He has a commercial-residential building with 14 units, generating a monthly rental income of Sh100,000. Macha plans to retire at 45 and expand his property portfolio.
Macha's saving habit, which he has maintained for 15 years, has enabled him to create multiple income streams for his family. He started a poultry business for his wife, who keeps about 300 indigenous chickens and collects six trays of eggs daily. The business provides a dependable market, with hotels and consumers seeking locally produced food. Macha's wife has been able to support his investments, including the construction of the apartment building.
Macha's daily savings have also enabled him to invest in the matatu industry. He recently bought his second Nissan Shark, which operates on the Mahi Mahiu-Naivasha route, generating Sh2,500 daily. Unlike his current job, where his income depends on his physical presence, the matatus allow him to earn through employees. Macha has employed young touts to work on his matatus, which operate every day.
Macha's experience operating a 33-seater bus on the Nairobi-Kiambu route has convinced him that there is money to be made with a similar bus on the Mahi Mahiu-Naivasha route. He plans to acquire a 33-seater bus, known as a manyanga, and put it on the route. His calculations indicate that the bus can collect Sh26,400 over eight trips, with a profit of about Sh12,000 after expenses.
Macha's success has not been without challenges. He notes that many young touts struggle to develop a saving habit, often spending their earnings immediately. This can lead to financial difficulties when they lose their jobs or retire. Macha advises young touts to save and invest for the future, rather than spending their earnings on luxuries.
Macha's plans for retirement include transitioning to a farm managerial role, where he can spend more time with his wife and family. He intends to help his wife expand her poultry business and focus on managing his matatu business. With his savings and investments, Macha is confident that he will have a secure retirement.
Macha's story serves as an inspiration to many Kenyans who struggle to make ends meet. His success demonstrates that with discipline, hard work, and smart investments, it is possible to build a secure financial future. As Macha looks to the future, he is optimistic about his prospects and plans to continue growing his business.
Key points
- Macha has invested his daily savings of Sh1,000 into various businesses, including real estate, poultry farming, and matatus.
- He plans to retire at 45 and expand his property portfolio, with a goal of acquiring a 33-seater bus for the Mahi Mahiu-Naivasha route.
- Macha's success is attributed to his saving habit and smart investments, which have enabled him to create multiple income streams for his family.
