Meet business-savvy Kisii preacher who sells shoes to congregants' children to earn extra income

However, for Peter Muruabi, as he provides spiritual nourishment to believers, he has taken up working as a shoe maker part-time, among other businesses, to ensure he sustains himself.

"The idea of the shoe making business came to me because I realised our church has many parents with school-going children. After Covid-19 hit in 2020, many parents found it hard to make ends meet and buy essentials for their children, such as shoes. Shoes were retailing for about Ksh2,000 and I decided to get into the business and I've been able to sell the shoes for Ksh1,000," he said.

Muruabi went on to say that it is important for clerics to have multiple streams of income and not rely solely on the tithes and offering made by congregants.

"I also took up farming, and I've encouraged other clerics to do so," he said.

Thomas Ochoki is one of the employees hired by Muruabi.

He said, "I have learnt a lot about the shoe making trade and I've been able to make money too."

"I have school-going children and this trade has helped me."

Muruabi said it is wise to have several businesses in operation to ensure one is not left high and dry in cases congregants decide to leave for other churches or give less.

He added, "You also don't want congregants to feel as if you are misusing their money, so when they see you doing other businesses to sustain yourself, it's better."

Muruabi said he started the business with two employees in 2020, and it has grown to employ 20 workers.