(Nairobi) – Dennis Bwire is not your typical entrepreneur selling ordinary goods at trade fairs. At just 27 years old, his creative ability to transform scrap materials into functional, multipurpose items has won him a growing customer base and a steady income.
At the heart of his ingenuity is his workshop, Debiwa Technical Works, in Ruiru, where he crafts unique items such as wooden electric sockets, tables that double as radios and speakers, and lamps with in-built music systems. These creations are popular for their affordability and practicality, with many featuring lockable compartments for added safety.
Speaking at a trade exhibition held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi on November 10, 2024, Bwire drew a large crowd of curious attendees. Demonstrating one of his creations, he explained, “This is a table, a radio, and a speaker, all in one. It’s very affordable and practical.”
His standout product, a multifunctional table with speakers and a radio, sells for approximately KSh 15,000, with at least one sold weekly. He also offers music-playing lamps at KSh 3,000 each, selling three or more every week. “These lamps are especially popular because they work as radios and can hold a charge for up to four days during power outages,” he noted.
Bwire is continuously improving his designs. Recently, he began incorporating solar panels into the lamps, enabling them to recharge using sunlight.
His journey began with humble roots. Dropping out of primary school due to financial challenges, Bwire developed a curiosity for mechanics and electronics by dismantling radios, televisions, and cars to understand how they functioned. This curiosity turned into a livelihood as he mastered using discarded materials to create marketable items.
To craft his products, Bwire sources materials from electronics repair shops, carpentry workshops, and even garbage dumps. Occasionally, he purchases additional supplies from local stores when necessary. His creativity lies in combining functionality with convenience. “Customers love products that serve multiple purposes and offer safety, like lockable lamps or sockets,” he said.
One of his bestselling items is a wooden electric socket. These sockets are crafted from treated wood to ensure safety and durability. Prices range from KSh 500 to KSh 1,500, depending on design and features, such as the inclusion of a lockable key mechanism. “Most of my customers are churches, salons, barber shops, and small businesses,” Bwire explained.
Key Features of Bwire’s Creations
| Product | Unique Features | Price Range (KSh) | Target Customers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multifunctional table | Combines a table, speaker, and radio | 15,000 | Homes, offices |
| Music-playing lamp | Doubles as a radio, holds a charge for up to 4 days | 3,000 | Small businesses, households |
| Wooden electric sockets | Treated wood, lockable for safety | 500–1,500 | Churches, salons, barber shops |
Despite his achievements, Bwire is determined to keep improving his designs and expanding his reach.