Explores the innovative environmental entrepreneurship of Herman Muli in Athi River, Kenya. Recognizing the enormous volume of waste generated daily in Kenya—about half a kilogram per person, translating to millions of tons annually—Muli sought to turn this environmental challenge into an opportunity. After returning from the United States in 2014, he was struck by the sight of discarded glass and plastic bottles littering towns, creating hazards for pedestrians and wildlife. Drawing on his creativity and determination, he launched Tosheka Products Company in September 2024, beginning full production by December, transforming waste into useful and aesthetically pleasing products while demonstrating the potential of small-scale sustainable business initiatives.
Tosheka Products focuses on upcycling glass and plastic into a wide range of functional and decorative items, including drinking glasses, vases, chandeliers, and utility holders. Each bottle is carefully cleaned, cut, and polished using custom-made equipment designed by Muli himself, ensuring minimal waste and high-quality outcomes. The company employs four permanent staff, five casual workers, and two online marketers, producing around 800 pieces weekly for clients including restaurants, offices, and households. Beyond environmental impact, Muli’s approach adds economic value, creating jobs, inspiring youth and women to start micro-enterprises, and promoting sustainable consumption. The artistic quality of the products distinguishes them in the market, demonstrating that eco-friendly items can be both functional and visually appealing.
Despite the success, Muli faces challenges, including inconsistent supply of suitable bottles, market penetration, and consumer acceptance of upcycled products. Nevertheless, the broader impact of his venture is significant. By converting waste into wealth, Tosheka Products provides a practical solution to Kenya’s waste management crisis while fostering environmental awareness. Muli envisions expanding production, diversifying into plastic-based furniture, and offering training programs to empower communities. This initiative exemplifies how creativity, resourcefulness, and entrepreneurship can transform environmental challenges into opportunities for economic growth and sustainable development.