Maida Waziri is a renowned Tanzanian entrepreneur and business leader. She is the Managing Director of Ibra Contractors Ltd, a respected general contracting firm in Tanzania, and the founder of Ibra Enterprises, a furniture and hardwood company. Waziri is also a passionate advocate for women’s economic empowerment and serves as the President of the Voice of Women Entrepreneurs Tanzania (VoWET). Her journey, from humble beginnings to becoming a leading figure in Tanzania’s construction industry and a champion for women in business, is an inspiring tale of resilience, determination, and a commitment to excellence.
Early Life and Entrepreneurial Spirit
Born in 1971 in Singida Rural, Tanzania, Maida Waziri’s entrepreneurial journey began after completing her O Levels in 1990. While her parents hoped she would continue her education, Waziri felt a strong pull towards the world of business. This drive, coupled with a keen eye for opportunity and a “never-say-die” spirit, would become hallmarks of her career.
With limited resources, Waziri started her first business as a street vendor selling second-hand clothes. Even at 16, she possessed a remarkable understanding of customer needs and the importance of creative thinking in business. She recalls, “I wondered which business a young girl could start with the least capital. I had seen some hawkers selling used clothes door to door. They were all men, but I didn’t care.” This early experience instilled in her the value of identifying market gaps and pursuing opportunities with courage and determination, traits that would serve her well throughout her career.
Despite facing societal expectations that often discouraged women from venturing into business, Waziri persevered. She defied these norms, demonstrating remarkable resilience and a commitment to forging her own path. Through hard work and a focus on her goals, she saved enough money to enroll in a tailoring course at YMCA College, further expanding her skillset.
Building a Business Empire
After completing her tailoring course, Waziri established a tailoring shop in Buguruni, Dar es Salaam. However, she didn’t confine herself to tailoring. Always looking for new opportunities, she explored diverse ventures, including food production, the transport industry, and even raising cows for milk. This period highlights her willingness to experiment, learn, and adapt – a key characteristic of successful entrepreneurs.
In 1998, she founded Ibra Enterprises, her first officially registered company. Initially focused on furniture and hardwood, the company soon expanded its offerings. A significant turning point came when Ibra Enterprises secured a government tender to produce car seat covers, generating substantial revenue that fueled further growth. Waziri capitalized on this success, expanding into office stationery, furniture, and carpeting services.
Waziri’s entrepreneurial journey took another significant leap when she identified a need in the construction sector. Observing the poor condition of many buildings while visiting clients, she recognized a market for affordable and high-quality construction services. This led her to establish IBRA Building Contractors & General Supplies in 2000, later renamed Ibra Contractors Ltd.
Entering the male-dominated construction industry presented its own set of challenges. Many doubted her ability to succeed in this field. However, Waziri remained undeterred, drawing strength from her earlier experiences and her unwavering belief in her vision. She focused on delivering quality and exceeding customer expectations, principles reflected in Ibra Contractors’ motto, “Innovate 4 Future.” The company’s dedication to providing high-standard solutions has been instrumental in its growth and success.
| Company/Organization | Description |
|---|---|
| Ibra Enterprises | Founded in 1998, this company initially focused on furniture and hardwood before expanding into car seat covers, office stationery, and carpeting services. |
| IBRA Building Contractors & General Supplies (later Ibra Contractors Ltd) | Established in 2000, this general contracting firm specializes in civil and road works, as well as general construction, with a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. |
| East Africa College of Business | Guided by the motto “Pathway to Great Destinies,” this college focuses on providing quality education in business, finance, and entrepreneurship. |
Export to Sheets
Ibra Contractors Ltd has become one of the most respected general contracting firms in Tanzania, employing over 300 people directly and indirectly. Client testimonials highlight the company’s professionalism, responsiveness, and commitment to delivering projects on time and within budget.
Championing Innovation and Sustainability
Maida Waziri’s entrepreneurial drive extends beyond simply building businesses; she is also an innovator committed to introducing new technologies and sustainable practices. In 2017, she brought a groundbreaking technology to Tanzania that has simplified and improved the construction of roads and houses. Through a partnership with the National Distributors of Claycrete Tanzania, Ibra Contractors began utilizing Claycrete, an innovative soil stabilizer invented in Australia.
Claycrete offers numerous benefits, including:
- Reducing the capital cost of unsealed roads by up to 50 percent.
- Providing harder and more durable road surfaces.
- Reducing dust pollution from unsealed roads.
- Improving water impermeability, leading to greater road longevity.
- Lowering overall road maintenance costs.
By introducing this technology, Waziri has not only improved the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of construction in Tanzania but has also contributed to more sustainable infrastructure development.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
Maida Waziri’s impact extends beyond the realm of business; she is a passionate advocate for women’s economic empowerment. As the President of VoWET, she plays a crucial role in supporting and empowering women entrepreneurs in Tanzania.
Waziri understands the unique challenges women face in the business world, particularly in male-dominated sectors. Drawing from her own experiences, she encourages women to “dream big, and be prepared to go that extra mile” to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. In a speech on International Women’s Day, she emphasized the need for government policies that empower women, enhance capacity building, and promote their participation in all sectors of the economy.
VoWET, under Waziri’s leadership, provides a vital platform for women entrepreneurs to connect, share experiences, and access resources and support. The organization emphasizes self-reliance, hard work, and sustainability, equipping women with the tools and knowledge they need to build thriving businesses. Waziri’s involvement in the Women Creating Wealth (WCW) program further underscores her commitment to supporting women in business. WCW has been instrumental in helping women entrepreneurs like Waziri access networks and resources, enabling them to scale their businesses and contribute to economic growth.
Akili ya Pesa Challenge
Driven by a desire to give back and foster the next generation of entrepreneurs, Maida Waziri founded the Akili ya Pesa Challenge. This social enterprise provides young entrepreneurs with the training, mentorship, and financial support they need to turn their innovative ideas into reality.
The Akili ya Pesa Challenge is a testament to Waziri’s belief in the power of entrepreneurship to drive economic development and social change. The program focuses on empowering young people, equipping them with essential skills and resources to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. Participants benefit from mentorship by successful entrepreneurs, economists, and local celebrities, gaining valuable insights and guidance. The program culminates in a competition where participants showcase their business ideas, with the winner receiving a significant financial award to boost their venture.
Authorship and Thought Leadership
Maida Waziri’s influence extends beyond her businesses and social initiatives; she is also an author and a sought-after speaker. Her best-selling book, “Sauti ya Mjasiriamali: Kesho Yako Ni Uthubutu” (“The Voice of the Entrepreneur: Your Tomorrow Depends On Derring-do”), chronicles her life journey and offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. The book, priced at 18,000 Tanzanian shillings, provides readers with insights into her entrepreneurial mindset and the challenges and triumphs she has experienced along the way.
Waziri also shares her expertise on SME development through articles published in various outlets, including the Africa Guardian. She is a frequent speaker at conferences and events, inspiring audiences with her story and her insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and women’s empowerment.
Recognition and Awards
Maida Waziri’s remarkable achievements have earned her widespread recognition and numerous awards. Her contributions to the business world, her advocacy for women, and her commitment to community development have been acknowledged both nationally and internationally.
Some of her notable accolades include:
- East Africa Entrepreneur of the Year at the 7th All Africa Business Leaders Awards (2017): This prestigious award recognized her innovative approach to construction and her significant impact on Tanzania’s economy.
- Best Female Owned/Managed Construction Firm (2011): Awarded by the Contractors Registration Board, this honor highlighted Waziri’s success in breaking barriers and establishing herself as a leader in the construction industry.
- Recognition from Equity Bank, the Uwezo award, and Clouds Media Group’s Malkia wa Nguvu: These awards further acknowledge her entrepreneurial achievements and contributions to society.
In addition to these awards, Waziri chairs Muungano Saccos and is actively involved with the Institute of Social Work and other community groups, demonstrating her commitment to broader social development.
Business Leadership Organizations
Maida Waziri actively participates in several business leadership organizations, contributing to the growth and development of the Tanzanian business landscape. She is a member of the Construction Sector Skills Council of the Tanzania Private Sector Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting skills development and training in the construction industry to meet the demands of a growing economy.
Waziri is also a member of the Association of Citizen Contractors Tanzania, an organization that represents the interests of local contractors and advocates for their growth and development. Her involvement in these organizations reflects her commitment to fostering a thriving and sustainable construction sector in Tanzania.
Maida Waziri’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a commitment to excellence. From her humble beginnings as a street vendor to her current position as a leading entrepreneur and advocate for women, she has consistently defied expectations and broken barriers. Her story is a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, demonstrating that with passion, perseverance, and a belief in oneself, anything is possible.
Waziri’s Accomplishments
Maida Waziri’s career is a compelling example of entrepreneurial success and dedication to community development. Starting from her early days as a street vendor, she has built a diverse portfolio of businesses, including Ibra Enterprises, a company that evolved from selling furniture and hardwood to securing government contracts and expanding into various services. Her leadership in the construction industry is evident through Ibra Contractors Ltd, a leading firm in Tanzania that employs over 300 people and is recognized for its quality and customer satisfaction.
Waziri’s commitment to innovation is demonstrated by her introduction of Claycrete technology to Tanzania, a move that has not only improved the efficiency and sustainability of road construction but also positioned her as a forward-thinking leader in the industry. Her dedication to social entrepreneurship is evident through the Akili ya Pesa Challenge, a program that empowers young people to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute to Tanzania’s economic growth.
As a prominent voice for women in business, Waziri actively promotes their economic empowerment through her leadership role in VoWET and her participation in the WCW program. These initiatives provide women with access to resources, networks, and mentorship, enabling them to overcome challenges and build successful businesses. Her best-selling book and frequent speaking engagements further solidify her position as a thought leader and an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Maida Waziri’s story is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship can be a transformative force, not only for individuals but also for communities and nations. Her journey highlights the importance of perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in achieving success and making a positive impact on the world.
