Front Yard Icicles

“To bring cool relief to the scorching heat of Dar es Salaam,” says the founder of the business, reflecting on how their journey began five years ago. Starting as a home-based operation with only one consistent customer and producing just 8 kilograms of ice per day, Front Yard Icicles has transformed into a leading supplier of aromatic flavored ice, offering unique flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and other exciting varieties.

In its early days, the company struggled to scale, producing only a modest 8 kg of ice per day. However, in 2022, Front Yard Icicles grew their production capacity to 50 kg per day, and the business moved into a small office space of just 10 square meters. Despite the growth, they recognized that to meet the rising demand and make a more substantial impact, they needed a boost. That’s when they turned to the Imbeju Program.

In 2023, Front Yard Icicles applied for funding from the Imbeju Program and received TZS 27 million from the CRDB Bank Foundation. This financial support was a game- changer, allowing the business to increase production, expand its distribution, and grow its team. The funding also supported their broader social impact goals, as they aimed to create jobs and serve larger communities across Dar es Salaam.

Since receiving the Imbeju funding, Front Yard Icicles has experienced rapid growth. Their production has grown from 8 kg to an impressive 1,000 kg of ice per day, allowing them to better meet the needs of their expanding client base. They also increased their permanent staff from just 1 to 8 employees and created casual labor opportunities, employing 4 additional staff members to support the increased workload. Furthermore, the business now supports a fleet of 20 bodaboda (motorcycle) delivery drivers to ensure fast, efficient delivery across the city.

With the funding, Front Yard Icicles was able to purchase a 1-ton ice production machine, improving their capacity and efficiency. This allowed them to scale up their operations, serving large-scale clients and high-profile events. Their client base has grown, now including major clients such as Amel, View Point Supermarket, Wavuvi Kempu, Slipway, Amigos, and FK Pharmacy.

The company’s ability to scale also enabled them to serve large concerts and events in Dar es Salaam, including the highly publicized Sean Paul concert, which helped elevate their reputation in the industry.

The partnership with the CRDB Bank Foundation has provided Front Yard Icicles with the credibility and resources needed to grow. Through the Imbeju Program, they gained not only funding but also valuable mentorship and guidance. This relationship has opened doors for Front Yard Icicles, positioning them as a trusted and reliable brand. The association with CRDB Bank Foundation has led to additional opportunities and collaborations, including partnerships with organizations like the UNDP, further solidifying Front Yard Icicles’ credibility in the market.

As the company we have also benefited from the social impact aspect of the Imbeju Program, By creating jobs, increasing production, and extending their reach, Front Yard Icicles has contributed to the local economy and provided much-needed services to the community.

“Being associated with CRDB Bank Foundation has been a game-changer for us. The support we received has given us the tools, confidence, and credibility to grow our business and make a real impact,” says the founder.

In just a short period, Front Yard Icicles has gone from a small home-based operation to a thriving business serving the needs of thousands of Dar es Salaam residents, thanks to the Imbeju Program, said Mr. Tareq Mgaya, Managing Director of Front Yard Icicles.

Today, Front Yard Icicles is not only a business success story but a shining example of the potential of small businesses when given the right resources and guidance to thrive.