Dilip Shah is the founder of Umoja Rubber Products, a footwear production company offering rubber products, sandals, boots, school shoes and flip flops for men, women and children. He established the business over four decades ago, inspired by his father who was a successful businessman at the time. Shah’s idea worked and his company has grown to have over 45 stores scattered around the country, additionally employing over 3,000 people. Shah set up Umoja Rubber Products in 1978 in a tiny rented business space in Mombasa. Now, with imported machinery from abroad, he hit the ground running. Shah shared that he started in a small area of 7,000 square feet, making flip flops with a staff of 22, using imported machinery from Hong Kong and China. Today, his company’s major competitor is Bata. Shah also discussed challenges that he encountered, pinpointing lack of finances as one of his main challenges. Shah is also the founder of Mzuri Sweets, producers of candies, lollipops, chewing gum and long-life cakes.