Ssemakula rides on the festive mood to earn a living
In many parts of Uganda, festive buzz is in the air. Local and foreign-produced Christmas songs are dominating the airwaves.
On the streets of Kampala and its suburbs, people are starting to get into the festive mood. But one young entrepreneur, Andrew Ssemakula has turned the holiday season into a business opportunity.
Ssemakula, 27, sells Christmas decorative items such as lights, balloons, and stars.
His small but colorful stall, strategically located near a busy intersection, is adorned with twinkling fairy lights, colorful and glowing stars. His display captures the attention of passersby, many of whom stop to make purchases for their homes, churches, and community events.
“My love for the festive season inspired me to venture into this business,” he says with a warm smile. “Christmas is a time when people want their spaces to look beautiful and welcoming, so I saw an opportunity to meet that need.”
Ssemakula sources his inventory from wholesalers in downtown Kampala, where he carefully selects items that he believes will appeal to his community. He commutes early in the morning to get the best deals, ensuring his prices remain competitive.
“It’s not easy,” he admits.
“You have to wake up very early, navigate the traffic, and bargain hard to make sure you don’t overspend. But it’s worth it when I see the joy on people’s faces as they pick out their decorations.”
While the business has brought Ssemakula a sense of accomplishment, it is not without its challenges.
“Transport costs can be high, and sometimes, I struggle to sell enough to cover my expenses,” he explains. Additionally, the unpredictable weather during the festive season can sometimes keep customers away.
Despite these hurdles, Ssemakula remains optimistic.
“Every business has its ups and downs,” he says. “The key is to stay consistent and find ways to stand out,” he says.
Advice
Ssemakula encourages other young people to seize the opportunities presented by the festive season.
“Don’t just sit back waiting for miracles,” he advises.
“Look around for gaps you can fill. Whether it’s selling decorations, snacks, or providing services like event planning, there is always a way to make money if you’re willing to work hard.”
He emphasizes the importance of starting small.
“I didn’t have much capital when I began, but I reinvested what I made and slowly grew my business. You don’t need to have everything figured out from the start—just take the first step.”
He says this venture is not just about earning a living; it’s about creating memorable experiences for his customers.
“When I see families buying decorations together or hear someone say their home looks beautiful because of what they bought from me, it’s a priceless feeling,” he shares.
