DownloadHelper Lender Team

Dubbed the "refugee millionaire", Mesfin is a well-known entrepreneur currently residing at Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp. He founded his business in 2001, which currently provides food and household items to thousands of refugee and host clients on a daily basis.

Years ago, Mesfin had the opportunity to relocate to the United States but declined, opting to stay behind to make a difference in the community that hosted him when he was in most need. “I don’t want people to see refugees as an economic burden". He hopes his business will help people help themselves and reduce dependence on aid assistance.

Mesfin is a tireless champion for financial inclusivity for refugee entrepreneurs. He also spends a portion of his profits to pay scholarships for 1,500 students from both the refugee camp and the host community around the area. He employees 45 people.

Mesfin's business supports most of the smaller businesses within the area by giving them goods on credit and allowing them flexible repayment periods for growth. This is because it is so hard for refugee businesses to get loans from financial institutions, including Mesfin himself.

Mesfin is requesting a loan for working capital to increase his bulk purchases and to cover operating costs when he experiences supply chain delays.