The Strathmore Entrepreneurship Legal Clinic (SELC) is a project under the Entrepreneurship Unit in The Strathmore Law Clinic. This project seeks to educate the public on key legal principles relevant to business management. The project involves Clinicians drafting advice letters for clients, with the help of an advocate

Andrew Mwanza, head of the entrepreneurship unit, together with Clare Kaira and Sylvia Monari, the leaders of the project, steered the awareness drive on the 7th of February. We were divided into two groups, one covering the Siwaka/Nyayo route and the other the Magharibi/Nairobi West route.

After agreeing on our strategy and holding a quick morning briefing, we, alongside  Mr. Elvis Cosmos from the Pro Bono Institute of Kenya (PBIK) and Mr. Alex Assenga, a member of the Strathmore Law School Faculty, stepped out with purpose. At first, it wasn’t as straightforward as we thought. Which stalls counted as businesses? Who exactly were we meant to approach? And of course, anxiety made its grand entrance. A stammer here, a reference to material there, and the first conversation happened. Just like that, the ice was broken. The heart of every interaction was simple: how can we support you legally? 

From the lady selling bananas to the guy arranging flowers (clearly preparing for the Valentine season), each person reminded us why access to justice and legal aid, through the Strathmore Law Clinic, matters. They didn’t just listen, they opened up. They shared their realities, their struggles, and the legal challenges they quietly navigate every day. It was humbling and eye-opening. It was a powerful reminder that we are not just students learning the law; we are potential solutions walking through the community.

This awareness drive clarified who we serve by allowing us to truly see them. From the vibrant fish monger empire in Nairobi West to the aquarium store tucked around Magharibi. The small, determined businesses that keep the area alive. There is so much innovation and resilience in our community, and being welcomed into that space was an experience in itself.

As we moved through Siwaka and later Kilosh, we began to notice a shift in reception. Some business owners were open to the idea of the Legal Clinic and even said they would spread the word, while others were hesitant. A butchery owner in Kilosh stood out for his genuine interest; he wanted to understand more about what SELC does and mentioned that he might pass by the offices or ask around for more information. However, we ran out of pamphlets midway through the outreach, which made us realise the importance of carrying more materials for future drives. 

Sylvia Monari, in the second team, engaged in an interesting conversation with a shop owner at Nyayo. “Can justice truly be achieved in this corrupt system?” asked the shop owner, despite having previously engaged a lawyer. She spoke with confidence about legal processes, licenses, and registration. However, she maintained her belief that justice is not always guaranteed. That conversation stayed with us, as it highlighted both awareness within the community and the deep skepticism that still exists toward the legal system.

Now, all we have to do is wait, wait for them to seek our help, not in our casual attire anymore, but in our suits, ready to offer solutions to their legal challenges. This would then be the culmination of all our efforts, for them to access legal aid. Legal aid that would make the system a little better, ultimately helping the shop owner at Nyayo. A full circle moment. Finally, as Natasha Ndar said,“ It was a nice way to spend a Saturday.”

Written By Joy Wahinya.