A Ride to Freedom: Martin Njuguna's Journey from Boda Boda Rider to Business Owner

The Road Less Traveled: Finding Opportunity in Transportation

Five years ago, Martin Njuguna embarked on a journey that, while not his childhood dream, became a path to financial stability and personal growth. "I found myself on this path for financial reasons," Martin reflects, his voice tinged with the wisdom of experience. A seasoned driver by profession, Martin saw the burgeoning boda boda industry not as a mere stopgap, but as a fertile ground for entrepreneurship. "Being employed wasn't enough," he explains, "I wanted my own business, and the boda boda industry offered that  Powerhive, a company partnered with 4G Capital, that Martin learned about an affordable financing option that would change his trajectory. "Upon visiting Powerhive, I was made aware of their partnership with 4G Capital and that 4G Capital offers an affordable financing option to begin to own an electric bike," he shares, recalling the pivotal moment of discovery.

The Power of Community and Partnership: Securing His First EV Bike

Despite his determination, Martin initially lacked the full funds required for an electric bike deposit. Undeterred, he tapped into the strong community spirit of his fellow riders, seeking assistance from boda boda chama (merry-go-round) groups. Their collective support helped him raise the necessary deposit. Following this, 4G Capital's streamlined process quickly took over. "I was requested for the rest of the required documents to own the bike," Martin explains. "A day later, I owned my first electric motorbike." This swift and accessible process underscored 4G Capital's commitment to empowering individuals like Martin.

The Fruits of Discipline: A Customer Success Story Unfolds

By the grace of God, Martin's commitment to his new venture was unwavering. He diligently made his timely repayments, becoming one of the first riders to successfully complete his loan. "I speak of the sacrifices I had to deprive my family of for a better future!" he exclaims, emphasizing the personal investment he made. Now, the rewards are clear: "Now Martin is able to feed his family well and educate his children. It's all in the focus and loving what you do!"

The shift to an electric bike brought immediate and tangible benefits. "In a short span of time, I started to witness the fruits of my decision," Martin proudly states. He recalls how, with his fuel bike, saving was a constant struggle. Within just six months, the substantial savings from reduced operational costs allowed him to make accelerated loan payments, significantly shortening his loan tenure and granting him full ownership of his bike much sooner than anticipated. "Within a span of six months, I was making enough payments to my loan that shortened his loan tenure, giving him the freedom to own his bike," he beams.

A particularly poignant outcome is his ability to educate his daughter, who is currently in secondary school. "I'm proud to be educating her," he shares, a testament to the transformative power of his decision. He vividly remembers the days of the fuel bike, where he often found himself borrowing money from family and friends to sustain his family and his job. "In 8 months, it is one of the best decisions I have ever made!" he declares, reflecting on the profound impact of his choice.

Looking Ahead: Driving Towards Future Dreams

Though he has achieved significant success in the boda boda industry, Martin has not abandoned his long-term aspirations. He acknowledges his background as a Matatu driver and his desire to build his own business within the transportation sector. "All I know is the transportation industry," he says, with a glint of ambition in his eyes. He envisions a future where he can purchase his own Nissan van, continuing his journey as the independent driver he aspires to be.

Martin's Message to the Youth: Embrace Opportunity, Embrace Discipline

With the wisdom gleaned from his own journey, Martin offers a powerful message to the youth: "Take the loans. They are being offered to you and make a business for yourself!" He strongly advocates for 4G Capital's offering, contrasting it with other institutions that often impose longer loan tenure periods. "Unlike other institutions that offer longer loan tenure periods, take 4G Capital's offering," he advises. His core message revolves around discipline: "Be disciplined and in no time stability will follow." He passionately reiterates a vital truth: "Pesa ya deni sii ya kudunda. Pesa ya deni niyakuunda biashara na kujisaidia." (Money from debt is not for squandering. Money from debt is for building a business and helping yourself.)

Martin's gratitude towards 4G Capital is evident. He praises their "affordable and easy access loan." He stresses the simplicity of their process, emphasizing that "as long as you keep up with your repayments, all is well," and highlighting a key differentiator: "we do not request for guarantors." For Martin, 4G Capital stands out from the rest. "It is the best compared to other companies," he concludes, his voice a powerful endorsement of a partnership that truly changed his life.