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Mama Fina, whose real name is Sophia Namutebi, is a Ugandan entrepreneur born in 1979 in Mukono District. Her life journey is a remarkable tale of resilience, hard work, and entrepreneurial success. Here are 10 things you might not know about Mama Fiina:
- Humble Beginnings and Early Motherhood: Mama Fina was born into a humble family and faced challenges early in life. She dropped out of school at a young age and became a mother to her daughter Safina. To support herself and her child, she worked as a maid.
- Street Hawking and Business Ventures: In 1995, Mama Fina moved to Kampala and began hawking merchandise on the streets. Starting with an initial capital of Shs38,000, she sold polythene bags at Mini-Price in downtown Kampala. She later ventured into the fabric business, making profitable trips to Nairobi.
- Polythene Bag Business Success: Mama Fina’s first business involved selling polythene bags at taxi stages in Kayunga, Mukono, and Jinja. Her hard work and keen business sense saw her turn a profit of Shs800,000 after four trips to Nairobi.
- Diversification into Clothing Business: Inspired by a friend, Mama Fina expanded her business by importing and selling gomesi attires. Her dedication and strict savings habits allowed her to make profitable trips to Dubai in 1998 for merchandise.
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- Entrepreneurial Milestones: By 1999, Mama Fina owned four commuter taxis plying the Kampala–Jinja Highway, each valued at Shs8.5 million. She diversified further into the bodaboda (motorcycles) business, demonstrating her versatility.
- Ex-Husbands and Business Expansion: Mama Fina’s ex-husband, Ali Kyonjo, played a significant role in broadening her business horizons. The couple ventured into importing and selling gomesi attires. She also invested in real estate, with properties in various locations in Uganda.
- Garment Shops and Car Importation: Mama Fina owns garment shops in downtown Kampala, Masaka, and Mityana. Additionally, she is involved in the importation of used cars from Japan for retail customers.
- Real Estate Investments: Her real estate portfolio includes residential and commercial properties across the country. Diversifying her business interests has allowed her to spread profits in a non-predictable market.
- Marriages and Personal Life: In September 2017, Mama Fina married Ismail Ssegujja, a businessman, in a ceremony at Kololo Mosque. She was previously married to the late Major Muhammad Kiggundu, who was assassinated in November 2016. Her first husband was Kyonjo.
- Mama Fina is a loving mother to daughter Safina and son Rashid Kyonjo. Family has been a pillar of support throughout her journey, and her dedication to her children is evident in her life choices.
- Political Affiliation and Friendship with President Museveni: Mama Fina is a staunch supporter of the ruling party NRM (National Resistance Movement) and maintains a close friendship with President Yoweri Museveni.
Mama Fina’s journey from a street hawker to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to her determination, business acumen, and ability to adapt to changing markets. Her story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring entrepreneurs in Uganda.
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