Martin Kibirige
What’s the name of your business?
It’s called Maritini Interior Construct.
What exactly are you involved in?
We do architecture, interior design and engineering. This involves architectural design, construction, décor painting, tile work, stone work, modelling, metal works, among others.
When did you start this business?
I started it in 2006 when I was joining campus.
Where did you get the money to start it off?
It was through savings I made. I went to the UK in my vacation and did kyeyo. In the process I got to meet many people who were involved in the same field, so we exchanged ideas and I worked for them on several projects. Previously, I had a small company called IT Online.
How much did you invest in Maritini Interior Construct and how much is it worth?
It was around Shs21m but it’s worth Shs200m.
Why the name Maritini for this kind of business?
The concept came from the designs we do and it has my name to it as well.
How many people do you employ in this business?
At least 70 people in a good month and 40 in a non-busy month.
What course did you do?
I have a degree in computer science, a post graduate in interior designs and architecture, and I’m pursuing other post graduate courses.
Which projects have you worked on?
I’ve worked on Quality Supermarket Lubowa, C&C Apartments in Bukoto, and a number of residences, embassies and shopping malls.
How much do you charge?
We are fair, but work on budgets, depending on what someone wants to achieve.
What are some of the challenges you are facing in your business?
Clients acting as though they are more experienced than you the designer, competition from local engineers who change clients minds and quack people who get jobs on behalf of our name because it’s a brand.
Where is your business located?
It’s situated in Kyaliwajjala, on Namugongo Road on Digs building opposite Inland Petrol Station.