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Samuel Amo Tobbin, the founder and executive chairman of the Tobinco Group of Companies, has shared an inspiring story of his journey from a modest beginning to becoming a significant player in the pharmaceutical industry.
In a recent interview, Tobbin recounted how his entrepreneurial journey started with a capital of just GHC1, thanks to the mentorship of a benevolent Muslim neighbour, Alhaji Baba.
Reflecting on his early days, Tobbin revealed that Alhaji Baba, who lived near his family home, played a pivotal role in introducing him to the pharmaceutical business. Tobbin and his sibling would assist Alhaji Baba in carrying his goods home, fostering a friendship that would eventually shape his career path.
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“Selling medicine was introduced to me by a Muslim called Alhaji Baba,” Tobbin said. “In those days, he lived behind our house, and there was no street connecting to his house for cars to pass, so my sibling and I used to assist him in carrying his stuff home anytime he returned from town. That is how we became friends.”
After completing basic school, Tobbin had saved GHC1 from selling items like P.K. chewing gum. Unsure about his future and lacking funds for secondary education, he turned to Alhaji Baba for advice. With the GHC1, Alhaji Baba purchased some medicines for Tobbin to sell, marking the start of his pharmaceutical venture.
“Shortly after I completed basic school, I had made one cedi from selling P.K. and other things. Note, I am not talking about Ghc1 in today’s value; I am talking about it as in 1984,” Tobbin explained. “I informed Alhaji Baba that I had made one cedi from my sales and was not sure I could continue with secondary education. I asked him what I could do with my one cent. He then bought some medicines for me to sell, and that is how it all started.”
As he navigated the early challenges of his business, Tobbin received significant support from the brothers of Ernest Chemist, a well-known pharmaceutical company in Ghana. They provided him with drugs, sometimes even on credit, which greatly contributed to the growth of his business.
“I received so much assistance from the brothers of Ernest Chemist. They helped me immensely. They sold drugs to me, sometimes even on credit. The Ernest Chemist brothers really assisted me in becoming who I am now,” Tobbin acknowledged.
Today, Samuel Amo Tobbin’s Tobinco Group of Companies is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the supportive network that helped him along the way. His story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of mentorship, resilience, and seizing opportunities.
credit: omgvoice.com
