It’s not every day that someone with a degree in computer science switches careers to architecture, interior designing and engineering.
What is the name of your business?
The business is called Maritini Interior Construct.
What exactly do you deal in at Maritini Interior Construct?
We do architectural work, engineering, interior designing, construction, painting, gypsum and metal works and so on.
When did you start this business and why did you get interested in it?
I started it in 2006 and my frequent travelling to Nigeria inspired me a lot. My dad is an expatriate who was based in Nigeria and I loved going there. They have a unique touch in interior designing, which inspired me to start it here in Uganda.
How much did you invest in this business?
It was little. Just about Shs5m.
How many jobs do you usually get in a month?
I can’t estimate because every job has a target and complicity. Also the sections matter. We get daily jobs in consultancy and architectural sections but to answer your question, the least we get is 15 jobs a month. We are very busy.
Who are some of your biggest clients?
It depends; We have companies and individuals. We also have Sports Outreach Ministry in Mityana where we are constructing a school, Kampala Medical Chambers, we are working on the Buganda queen’s palace and many individuals whose names we can’t mention.
How many employees do you have and what’s the minimum and maximum wages for them?
We have over 126 permanent and 36 casual employees. We pay them according to their section or kind of work. Minimum wage is Shs450,000 and maximum is Sh2m.
How much would it cost to get a full self-contained house done?
If it’s two bedrooms each self-contained, dining room, sitting room, kitchen with a coated texture, it costs Shs80m, but if it’s just two bedrooms, sitting room, kitchen and toilet, it can cost Shs60m.
How do you handle the pressure your job brings?
I have six managers who I allocate in the six different sections. I only visit the sites to supervise and maintain the designs.
Did you study for this profession?
Yes I did, though I first did a Computer Science Degree at Makerere in 2009, then Post Graduate in interior designing in 2011 and a number of certificates in architectural and interior designing courses.
What advice do you give to youths out there?
They should know what they want, persevere, deliver at any cost and never promise when you can’t get something done.
Where are your premises located?
We are on Diggs Building along Namugongo Road.
