By Agnetta Okwemba
A German non-profit organization has launched its first physical innovation hub in Mombasa County, aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs in scaling their ideas into successful ventures.
The WesterWelle Startup Haus, developed by the WesterWelle Foundation in partnership with the German Federal Foreign Office, is the foundation's first hub in Kenya.
It promises to provide incubation and acceleration programs, co-working spaces, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs across the coastal region.
Speaking at the launch event, WesterWelle Foundation Chairman Michael Mronz highlighted the decision to establish the hub outside Nairobi, citing untapped potential in Mombasa.
"Through the establishment of this hub in this region, we aim to unlock the potential of local talent, empower entrepreneurs and foster their sustainable growth," Mronz said.
The hub offers a range of services, including mentorship programs, co-working office space, networking events, and access to the international WesterWelle Foundation Network.
One of the hub’s flagship initiatives is the DigiTalents program, which has already provided digital skills, technical training, professional coaching, and market connections to about 30 people.
With the launch of the hub, the program aims to grow its reach, hosting over 80 entrepreneurs in its co-working spaces.
Shekila Athman, a podcast host and beneficiary of the DigiTalents program, described the initiative as transformative.
"It has been a great experience to be part of this programme. I have been exposed to different skills that are in line with what I do," Athman said.
Joshua Murima Country Director WesterWelle Foundation in Kenya, and Michael Mronz, the Chairman of the WesterWelle Foundation during the launch of the WesterWelle Startup Haus in Mombasa.
The Country Director of WesterWelle Foundation Kenya, Joshua Murima, acknowledged the challenges faced by young businesses in Kenya, including a high failure rate within the first three years of operation.
"Most of these businesses fail to go past the 3-year mark and so this innovation hub is looking to offer sustainability through providing of working space, trainings and a market to grow their products and services," Murima said.
He added that the foundation’s programs are tailored to be inclusive of all ages and genders.
The Mombasa hub joins a network of WesterWelle innovation centers across Africa, including hubs in Arusha (Tanzania), Kigali (Rwanda), and Tunis (Tunisia).
According to Mronz, these centers share resources to enhance opportunities for entrepreneurs across the continent.
The foundation, which focuses on fostering entrepreneurship in emerging markets, has called on other organizations and investors to join its efforts to support Kenyan entrepreneurs and ensure the long-term success of the Mombasa hub.
