Jua Kali Fraternity Mourns Founding Leader Solomon Mutea Ncebere

The Jua Kali sector has paid tribute to Cllr. (Rtd.) Hon. Solomon Mutea Ncebere, a founding member and immediate past Chairman of the Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations (KNFJKA), who has been laid to rest.

Arch. Nyamai Wambua, HSC, Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations (KNFJKA), described the late Ncebere as a true champion of Kenya’s Jua Kali sector whose contribution to the empowerment of artisans and small-scale entrepreneurs will remain an enduring legacy.

Arch. Nyamai said Ncebere was a great leader, selfless mentor and dedicated servant who devoted his life to advancing the interests and welfare of artisans across the country.

“Mzee Ncebere was a pillar of our movement. His wisdom, leadership and sacrifice laid a strong foundation upon which the Jua Kali sector stands today,” Arch. Nyamai said.

He noted that the late Ncebere’s contribution went beyond his leadership positions, with his mentorship and commitment helping shape generations of artisans and entrepreneurs who continue to make an important contribution to Kenya’s economy.

The Jua Kali sector remains a major source of employment and livelihoods for millions of Kenyans, particularly young people and small-scale entrepreneurs. The contribution of pioneering leaders such as Ncebere has therefore been instrumental in strengthening the voice and organisation of the sector.

Arch. Nyamai also expressed appreciation to the Chairman of the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), the Director-General and the entire staff for standing in solidarity with the Jua Kali fraternity during the period of mourning.

He further thanked Jua Kali associations and representatives from across the country who came together to honour Ncebere and give him a dignified farewell.

According to Arch. Nyamai, the presence of members of the fraternity from different parts of Kenya demonstrated the profound respect and affection that Ncebere commanded within the Jua Kali movement.

As a founding member and former national chairman of KNFJKA, Ncebere played a significant role in the growth and development of the federation and in championing the interests of artisans and small-scale enterprises.

His leadership helped strengthen the collective voice of Jua Kali practitioners while advancing recognition of the sector as an important pillar of Kenya’s economy.

For Arch. Nyamai, Ncebere’s legacy will continue to live through the artisans, entrepreneurs and institutions whose journey he helped shape.

The KNFJKA CEO said the sector had lost a veteran whose dedication, wisdom and sacrifice provided inspiration to those who came after him.

As the Jua Kali fraternity bids farewell to one of its pioneers, Arch. Nyamai conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, friends, colleagues and the entire Jua Kali fraternity.

“A true hero has rested,” Arch. Nyamai said, as he honoured the memory of a leader whose years of service left an indelible mark on Kenya’s Jua Kali sector.

May the soul of Cllr. (Rtd.) Hon. Solomon Mutea Ncebere rest in eternal peace.