Essence Eco-Packaging: Sustainable Packaging for Communities

Project Title
Essence Eco-Packaging: Sustainable Packaging for Communities

Project Overview
Essence Packaging Solutions Limited is a social enterprise dedicated to providing eco-friendly, affordable, and innovative packaging solutions while creating employment opportunities for women and youth in Kenya. Founded with the vision of addressing both environmental sustainability and economic empowerment, the project reduces plastic waste, promotes responsible consumption, and supports local entrepreneurs with sustainable business solutions.

Problem Statement
Kenya generates an estimated 400,000+ tons of plastic waste annually, much of which pollutes communities and ecosystems. Despite the government’s ban on single-use plastics, small businesses and households continue to struggle with access to affordable, sustainable alternatives. Meanwhile, high unemployment rates among youth (over 60%) and women in urban informal settlements further worsen poverty and social exclusion.

Essence Packaging Solutions bridges this gap by offering environmentally friendly packaging alternatives while creating dignified employment for marginalized groups.

Objectives
Provide eco-friendly packaging to 500+ small businesses within the next 3 years.
Create 100+ sustainable jobs for women and youth by 2027.
Reduce plastic waste in target communities by 30% within 5 years.
Promote awareness and behavior change on sustainability and green practices.

Target Beneficiaries
Women and youth in urban informal settlements (employment, skills, income).
Small businesses and market traders (affordable packaging solutions).
Wider community (cleaner environment, reduced pollution).
Implementation Approach
Training & Capacity Building – Equip women and youth with skills in sustainable production and distribution.
Partnerships – Collaborate with SMEs, community-based organizations, and local authorities to enhance reach.
Innovation – Invest in biodegradable and recyclable packaging products to replace single-use plastics.
Awareness Campaigns – Conduct education drives on responsible consumption and waste management.
Future Impact & Vision
To establish pilot operations to serve 50+ local businesses in Nairobi.
To train and engage 20+ youth and women in production and distribution roles.
To reach over 500+ community members through sustainability awareness campaigns.
To successfully introduce biodegradable packaging prototypes in Nairobi markets.
Expand operations to 3 additional counties in Kenya by 2027.
Scale up employment to 300+ youth and women within 5 years.
Launch a digital platform to connect eco-friendly suppliers with businesses.
Position Essence Packaging Solutions as a regional leader in sustainable packaging in East Africa.
Leadership & Partnerships
As Founder & HR Manager, I will lead the strategic direction, business operations, and community engagement for Essence Packaging Solutions. I will work closely with local suppliers, SMEs, community organizations, and government agencies to ensure impact and sustainability. Through ELISA Scholars, I aim to strengthen my leadership skills, scale this social enterprise, and collaborate with like-minded innovators to accelerate Africa’s green and inclusive growth.