I&M Foundation and GIZ Commit KES 230 Million to Strengthen Livelihoods in the Maasai Mara Through Entrepreneurship

A new generation of entrepreneurs in the Greater Mara Ecosystem, Narok County, is emerging, supported by efforts to strengthen livelihoods in one of Kenya’s most important conservation landscapes. This follows the rollout of the Economic Empowerment and Gender Transformation in the Maasai Mara initiative, a KES230 million programme supported by I&M Bank, I&M Foundation and GIZ through the develoPPP programme and implemented in partnership with The Maa Trust.

As part of this broader initiative, nine local entrepreneurs have received KES1.92 million in seed funding, a scholarship and business support, following the completion a multi-faceted entrepreneurship programme that culminated in a live pitching competition.

Designed to empower youth and women, the programme equips participants with business development, financial literacy, and pitching skills, while reinforcing the link between sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation.

A total of 140 entrepreneurs from seven communities within the Greater Mara Ecosystem participated in The Predators’ Den, with 21 finalists advancing through to a two-month mentorship and training programme before pitching their ventures to a panel of judges.

Speaking of the inititaive, Dipnah Shah, Sustainability Lead at I&M Foundation stated: “We believe that empowering entrepreneurs is one of the most effective ways to create sustainable change. The Predators’ Den is rooted in the belief that sustainable conservation is only possible when communities have the skills, resources, and confidence to thrive economically.”

“At GIZ, we believe that sustainable economic development must go hand in hand with environmental stewardship. Through The Predators’ Den, we are proud to support entrepreneurs who are building innovative businesses that strengthen livelihoods while preserving the Maasai Mara ecosystem,” said Kevina Wangai, Technical Advisor, GIZ.

The Maasai Mara is one of Kenya’s most ecologically significant and economically vital landscapes. It is home to the world-famous Great Wildebeest Migration and sustains a rich tapestry of wildlife, pastoralist communities and tourism enterprise. Yet despite its global prominence, many community members, particularly youth, remain economically excluded from the value chains it generates.

The Maa Trust, a leader in community-based conservation, ensures the programme is deeply rooted in local context. Dr. Crystal Mogensen, CEO, The Maa Trust, noted: “By linking entrepreneurship with conservation, we are enabling communities to benefit directly from preserving their natural environment.”

The competition showcased innovative, community-driven enterprises tackling local challenges—from food production and water access to digital services and eco-friendly solutions.

Carl Leitato Naurori, a bakery entrepreneur, emerged as the overall winner, receiving KES 250,000 to scale a business with strong potential for job creation within the community. In a boost for digital inclusion, Martin Kiok was awarded a KES 650,000 scholarship. Through his cyber café, he is already equipping community members with essential digital skills, helping bridge the digital divide in the region.

Other winners included:

1. Second Best Overall Business (KES 150,000): Ann Kamakia – Naserian Olchani Ogol Livestock Enterprise
2. Third Best Overall Business (KES 120,000): David Kesierr – Water Vending
3. Best Adult Business (KES 150,000): Noormeshuki Kamakia – Ewanga Meshuki Textile and Cultural Wear Business
4. Best Female Business (KES 150,000): Sylvia Sanaipei – Savannah Poultry
5. Best Youth Business (KES 150,000): Anthony Lenkume – Classic Barbershop
6. Best Eco-Business (KES 150,000): Valentine Muteyian – Lemek Honey
7. Best Water-Related Business (KES 150,000): Joseph Maguta – Spacling Clean Detergents Solutions

The awards were supported by partners including Uhama Foundation, Asilia, Aqua Nirvana Foundation, and Saruni Basecamp Foundation.

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