Franklin Tom Nyamwenge

Franklin Nyamwenge beams with pride as he expresses himself in his request for another loan. Having received his first loan of $200.00 from Kiva lenders in May 2007, Franklin was able to purchase a grinder and a drilling machine that have greatly boosted his welding business and increased his income. Franklin has since paid back his loan and ANK can testify that it’s proud to have such a committed client. He paid his loan within a period of 11 months as he had indicated and he admits that the loan really boosted his business. He is also very grateful that the Kiva lenders greatly assisted him to develop his business.

Franklin is a 37-Year-old widower with four children to take care of and lives in the slums of Kibera in Nairobi. Though he did not complete his secondary school education, he was still determined to make it in his life and therefore joined his cousin in the city in his metal workshop. While in his cousin’s workshop, Franklin assisted him in all kinds of work and it is from here that he received the exposure that led him to setting up his own business.

In September 2005, Franklin set up his own workshop with $245.00 compiled from savings and some funds that he received in payment of his first contract that he had completed to make grills, windows, and door grills. His business has since grown due to his hard work and determination and also because of the timely service he gives his customers. He always ensures that he gives his customers what they request and also offers them reasonable prices for the products he makes. He has continued to win many hearts and hence customer demand keeps on increasing.

Franklin intends to continue to grow and expand his business. He now feels that the business needs a welding machine, which he currently doesn’t have. Franklin is therefore requesting the Kiva lenders to grant him a loan of Ksh. 30,000 to purchase the machine. He confesses that many of his customers need the services of this machine that he often has to hire in order to complete his work. He believes that he will be able to save more when he gets his own machine, and hence he will be able to better take care of his children and their education. He thanks Kiva lenders in advance as they assist him to grow and develop his business. He believes that anything is possible with hard work and determination. He intends to repay the loan over a period of twelve months.

Disclaimer: Due to recent events in Kenya, the security situation in many communities remains unsettled, affecting many local businesses. Lenders to this entrepreneur should be aware that this loan may represent a higher default risk, and should be willing to accept this additional risk in making their loan.