In 1997, Hamid founded Pan Afric Commodities, focusing initially on commodities trading. His business prowess quickly became evident as he expanded into manufacturing. By acquiring a milling machine from renowned businessman Sudhir Ruparelia and purchasing land in Kawempe, Kampala, Hamid laid the foundation for Aya Mills, which has grown into one of East Africa’s largest commercial flour mills. The facility now produces up to 8,500 tonnes of flour monthly, servicing Uganda and neighboring countries like Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan.
Hamid’s success isn’t limited to flour milling. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of Aya Bakery, Uganda’s largest commercial bakery, and Aya Biscuits, which utilizes modern technology to produce quality biscuit products. Expanding further, Hamid launched FIFI Transport Uganda Limited in 2004, a leading hauler with over 3,000 Mercedes-Benz trucks operating across East and Central Africa.
Aya Group also ventured into mining, establishing Uganda’s first gold mining facility, and into hospitality with the construction of the Pearl of Africa Hotel, a landmark luxury hotel in Kampala. Hamid’s investments extend internationally, with Aya Mohammed Trade, a general merchandise company based in Dubai, and a real estate firm in Manhattan, New York, dealing in residential and commercial properties.
The Aya Group is now a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate with investments totaling over USD 1.3 billion, employing more than 5,000 people across its various enterprises. Hamid’s business acumen has earned him recognition far beyond Uganda’s borders. Forbes ranked him as the second richest African under 40 in 2015, just behind Tanzanian multi-millionaire Mohammed Dewji.
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Yet, Hamid is more than just a businessman. Through the Aya Foundation, he has contributed significantly to improving the lives of orphaned and underprivileged children in Uganda. His commitment to corporate social responsibility is reflected in his efforts to provide education, housing, nutrition, and healthcare to those in need.
With a solid foothold in Uganda and beyond, Muhammed Hamid remains a powerful force in East Africa’s economic development, recognized for his business ventures and unwavering dedication to bettering the lives of those around him.
