My boss' dishonesty forced me into business
Dec 28, 2012
But nothing ever yielded results. In 1997, as a graduate, he worked as a medical representative for the local agent of (then) SmithKline Beecham, a UK global drug manufacturer, marketing new drugs to local medical personnel.
Grace Munyirwa, 41, is no stranger to business. As a child, he tried his hand at everything from selling charcoal for pocket money to trading in coffee.
But nothing ever yielded results. In 1997, as a graduate, he worked as a medical representative for the local agent of (then) SmithKline Beecham, a UK global drug manufacturer, marketing new drugs to local medical personnel.
The venture was not financially rewarding so he struggled to get by. But when his boss refused to pay him his commission after he clinched what he thought would be a life-changing deal, an angry but broke Munyirwa quit to set up his own business.
Today, he owns Vine Pharmaceuticals, a local pharmacy and cosmetic chain with 17 retail outlets spread all over Kampala. They serve at least 3,000 clients daily and employ about 110 staff.
He told Isaac Baligema and Sebidde Kiryowa how he has got here. Read more