Nairobi News

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Big business in daycares


The average rise in the livelihood in Nairobi, coupled with other societal privileges like single parenthood, gives an opportunity for one to set up a daycare centre.

With a minimal capital of about Sh80,000, one can invest in this business especially in high-end estates.

Setting up a daycare centre is easy because there are no enforced guidelines or policy governing the sector, so an entrepreneur is often free to set up the facilities according to their own guidelines.

“Starting small is the best way to venture into the day care business. Build your reputation to earn trust from more mothers who will recommend your centre to their peers,” said Milka Malesi, a home-based daycare facility manager in Ruaka Estate, Nairobi.

A background in child care or early childhood education is also a good foundation for daycare business ownership.

As changing employment trends drive Kenyan parents to work longer hours, entrepreneurs and companies are investing more in day care centres to meet demand for specialised child care services.

“As the number of two-income households increase, more people are relying on daycare centres to look after their children as they go about their daily tasks,” said David Mirito, a house help bureau manager.

Driving the shift is the emergence of new labour laws on the hiring of house maids.