How these magnetic mosquito screens are transforming home protection in Kenya

Magnetic mosquito screen. (Photo/Silas Nyamweya)

Briefly introduce yourself. I am the founder of Rafiki Pest Control, a business venture dedicated to innovative home solutions. We specialise in developing products that enhance comfort and safety in homes, with a focus on eco-friendly and sustainable solutions.

Tell us about the magnetic mosquito screens and how they work. Our magnetic mosquito screens are designed to provide a simple and effective solution to keep mosquitoes and other flying insects out of your home. These screens are made with fiberglass laced with Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), which is durable and resistant to wear and tear. The screens feature magnetic strips along the edges, allowing them to seal tightly against the window or door frame. This design ensures that no gaps are left for insects to enter, while the fine mesh allows air and light to pass through, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.

Where did you get the inspiration to develop this venture? The inspiration for this venture came from the need to find a practical solution to the widespread problem of mosquito-borne diseases in Kenya. We wanted to create a product that could protect families without relying on chemical repellents or other potentially harmful methods. Our motivation was to provide a healthier, more sustainable option that would also improve the quality of life for our customers by reducing the nuisance of mosquitoes and other insects.

Where did you get the skills, knowledge, and experience to develop this product? Our team has a diverse background in engineering, design, and materials science. We have extensive experience in product development and manufacturing, which has been crucial in creating a high-quality product. Additionally, we conducted thorough research on the best materials and designs for mosquito screens, and we consulted with experts in the field to ensure that our product meets the highest standards of safety and effectiveness.

So far, how has the market reception of this product been?

The market reception has been very positive. Customers appreciate the convenience and effectiveness of our magnetic mosquito screens. We have received great feedback about how easy they are to install and how well they work in keeping insects out. This positive response has been encouraging, and we are seeing growing interest and demand for our products

What have been your marketing avenues and what is your pricing? We have employed a multi-channel marketing strategy, including online marketing through social media and our website, as well as traditional methods such as brochures and flyers. We also participate in home improvement fairs and exhibitions to reach a wider audience. Our pricing is competitive and affordable, with various options depending on the size and type of screen required. We offer both standard sizes and custom solutions to meet the specific needs of our customers.

How much does this product cost to manufacture? Which materials are used, and where do you source them from? The cost of manufacturing our magnetic mosquito screens varies depending on the size and complexity of the design. The main materials we use are fiberglass laced with PVC for the mesh and magnetic strips for the sealing mechanism. We source these materials from reputable suppliers, both locally and internationally, ensuring high quality and sustainability.

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Any challenges so far and opportunities in this venture?

One of the challenges we have faced is educating the market about the benefits of our product as many people are still unfamiliar with the concept of magnetic mosquito screens. This, however, also presents an opportunity to establish ourselves as a leading provider of this innovative solution. We see a growing demand for eco-friendly and effective home solutions, and we are excited to expand our product line and reach more customers.

Why should Kenyans embrace these magnetic mosquito screens? Kenyans should embrace our magnetic mosquito screens because they offer a safe, effective, and convenient way to protect themselves against mosquitoes and other flying insects. Unlike chemical repellents, our screens are non-toxic and environmentally friendly. They also help reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, providing peace of mind for families. Moreover, they enhance the comfort of homes by allowing fresh air and natural light in while keeping pests out.

How are you planning to expand this project? We plan to expand by increasing our production capacity and broadening our distribution network. We are also exploring partnerships with home improvement stores and online retailers to make our products more accessible. Additionally, we are looking into developing new products that complement our mosquito screens, such as insect-proof curtains and door screens.