In Kericho town, 51-year-old Polycarp Otieno Ochieng is turning discarded materials into art, creating both livelihood and hope for the community. Ochieng, a skilled artisan with nearly three decades of experience, has found a way to transform what others see as trash into valuable and marketable products. His journey, which began with humble beginnings and scrap metal, now inspires local youth and serves as a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance in the face of adversity.
A Humble Start
Polycarp Otieno Ochieng was born in 1973 in Kenya’s Nyanza region. For years, he struggled to make ends meet, initially collecting and selling scrap metal to earn a meager income. His early days were marked by hardship, but he never lost sight of his dream to create something meaningful from the discarded materials he encountered.
In 1996, Ochieng took his first steps toward his artistic career, starting in Nairobi. He worked tirelessly, learning the art of recycling, painting, and design. Over time, his skills in face painting, crafting customized stamps, and producing stickers blossomed into a thriving business. Eventually, he moved to Kericho, where he established his open-air workshop—an inspiring space for both artistic creation and local community engagement.
Turning Trash Into Treasure
Ochieng’s artistic journey is rooted in his unique approach to materials. He sources his supplies from places that many would consider off-limits, such as dump sites, where he finds used Perspex, conveyor belts, and scrap machine parts. These materials, once discarded, are now the foundation of his creations.
“Nothing goes to waste,” Ochieng shared in an interview with the Kenya News Agency (KNA). “I utilize most trashed items by recycling them into valuable masterpieces. Through that, I earn a decent living, and I am very fulfilled.”
His work is not limited to function; it also brings beauty and meaning to the community. Ochieng’s creations include vibrant posters, decorative designs, and custom artwork that have become popular in schools, churches, shops, and even vehicles. Local boda boda riders, in particular, have found his designs a great way to personalize their bikes and helmets.
A Positive Impact on Local Youth
Ochieng’s small-scale business has had a far-reaching impact on the local youth. What started as a one-man venture has now grown into a source of inspiration and income for several young people in Kericho. Through his mentorship, they have learned the value of hard work and creativity, finding both purpose and opportunity in the world of craftsmanship.
He teaches his apprentices not only how to create art but also how to value the materials around them. “There’s a lot of potential in what we throw away,” he says. “I show them how to turn the discarded into something beautiful and valuable.”
A Vision for the Future
Despite the success of his workshop, Ochieng is keenly aware of the challenges that artisans like him face. One of his main concerns is the lack of infrastructure and support for small-scale entrepreneurs. He called for greater government involvement to uplift grassroots businesses, including financial assistance, trade fairs, and cultural exhibitions to help promote local talent.
“We work under verandas, exposed to the sun and rain,” he said. “It’s tough, but it also keeps us connected to our customers. We’re part of the community, and that’s a strength.”
Ochieng also emphasizes the need for more recognition of the value of jua kali (informal sector) work. “The jua kali sector should not be seen as a last resort,” he said. “It can be a strong beginning. With little to start with and hard work, anyone can go far.”
The Value of Persistence
On a good day, Ochieng earns up to KSh 3,000, demonstrating the financial potential that lies within small-scale entrepreneurship. His story is a testament to resilience and innovation, illustrating that with creativity and persistence, even the smallest ventures can become successful enterprises.
Ochieng’s impact goes beyond his craft. His message to Kenyan youth is clear: “Start with what you have, work hard, and you can achieve more than you ever imagined.”
