Evans' Soap-Making Impact: A Sustainable Solution for WASH Program
We’re excited to spotlight Evans' entrepreneurial story. He is now the contractor responsible for making hand-washing soap for HopeCore's Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) program. Blind from birth, Evans faced hardships for years, but this opportunity has given him the chance to earn a living and transform his life.
From Begging to Business: Evans’ Journey to Soap-Making
Evans attended St. Lucy’s School for the Blind, where he completed his primary education. However, after school, he spent two years struggling to survive by begging. Luckily, his uncle intervened, teaching him the skill of soap-making and providing him with a Ksh. 1000 ($7.87) start-up capital. With time, Evans refined his skills and accessed a soft loan from HopeCore’s Micro Enterprise program, which helped him boost his soap-making business.
Evans' expertise in soap-making caught the attention of the Micro Enterprise team, who saw his potential and recommended him to the Public Health Department. The department, in the midst of strategizing ways to reduce soap production costs for the WASH program in 2025, brought Evans on board. He is now tasked with producing handwashing soap for the program.
‘’It feels great to be part of the HopeCore family. I’m financially empowered, and most importantly, I’m helping promote health in schools,’’ says Evans.
A Multifaceted Sustainable Approach: Soap Production and Distribution to Schools
HopeCore distributes hand-washing soap to 282 partner schools to promote hygiene and improve health outcomes among students. Previously, HopeCore outsourced soap production, which was costly. However, by engaging Evans, and bringing soap-making in-house, HopeCore has distributed 3,680 litres of soap, saving Ksh. 101,600 ($800) in the first quarter.
In addition, HopeCore has introduced a new soap distribution strategy. Schools now pick up soap from designated points within specific zones, which helps reduce fuel costs, save time, and lower the program’s carbon footprint, supporting efforts to mitigate climate change.
“The schools have embraced the new system. They now take ownership of the program, which enables them to use the soap more effectively. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of this approach on hygiene and health outcomes in the schools,” says Terry Makena, HopeCore’s WASH Coordinator.
By empowering and engaging local community members like Evans, HopeCore is embracing a holistic approach to drive economic growth and improve health outcomes, promoting the long-term success of the WASH program, and all its programs, for a healthier, more sustainable future.
Evans is passing on the soap-making skill to HopeCore staff members, ensuring the sustainability of HopeCore’s WASH Program.
Watch the video of Evans’ soap-making work!
