Mocho, a young Kenyan entrepreneur, recently opened a barber shop using his savings, only to find himself without a single customer after two weeks of operation.
In a TikTok video, Mocho candidly shared his disappointment while giving a tour of his empty shop. Holding his shaving machine, he expressed how the reality of running a business differed sharply from his initial optimism.
He explained, "You guys never told me investing isn't for the weak. I started this barbershop to take life seriously, but two weeks in, no customers have come through. This business is not easy."
Despite the frustration, Mocho maintained a lighthearted tone as he highlighted the effort he put into setting up the shop, including installing a quality mirror and creating a professional environment.
His experience has caused him to reconsider future investments, stating, "If this is what investing means, I'd rather keep or spend my money elsewhere. I set up a beautiful shop, but this is disheartening."
Challenges for New Businesses in Kenya
Mocho’s story sheds light on the difficulties many young Kenyans face when launching small businesses. Establishing a loyal customer base often requires patience and time, especially in competitive sectors like barbering.
Slow customer turnout is common in new ventures, and building trust and recognition can take months rather than days. Mocho’s viral video has sparked conversations about the perseverance needed to succeed in Kenya’s small business landscape.
