While many university students depend entirely on family support, 20-year-old Kelvin Makambwe has chosen a different path by running a dishwashing liquid manufacturing business alongside his studies at Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR).
Makambwe, a second-year Development Economics student, started the business to support himself financially while gaining practical experience in entrepreneurship.
He manufactures and sells dishwashing liquid to fellow students, households, and small businesses, personally overseeing production, packaging, marketing, and sales.
“I started this business because I wanted to become financially independent and support myself while pursuing my studies. Through this venture, I have learned that young people do not have to wait for employment opportunities after graduation; they can create their own opportunities through hard work, determination and innovation,” said Makambwe.
According to Makambwe, the venture was inspired by his desire to become financially independent and reduce the burden on his family.
He said he wanted to demonstrate that young people can create opportunities for themselves instead of waiting for employment after completing their studies.
On average, he produces and sells between 80 and 100 bottles of dishwashing liquid per week, depending on customer demand and the availability of raw materials. The business has enabled him to cover part of his university expenses, including food and other daily needs, while also supporting his farming activities.
Beyond financial benefits, Makambwe says the enterprise has helped him gain valuable skills in entrepreneurship, financial management, marketing, customer service, and problem-solving.
He has also been able to reinvest profits into the business by purchasing additional raw materials and improving production processes.
One of his customers, Emma Tholowa of Area 22 in Lilongwe, described the product as reliable and affordable.
She said the dishwashing liquid performs well and has become her preferred choice for household cleaning because of its quality and effectiveness.
Looking ahead, Makambwe aims to build a nationally recognized brand that supplies quality dishwashing liquid across Malawi.
He hopes to expand production, create employment opportunities for young people, and contribute to the country’s economic growth while inspiring others to start small and pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions through hard work and determination.
