New hire Q&A

 Q: Tell us about your pre-employment period and the challenges you encountered.
 A: Let’s say the job market wasn’t exactly rolling out the red carpet for me! Whenever I applied for a job, I’d hear the same thing: “Sorry, this position is already filled.” It was frustrating! I realised that finding a job wasn’t just about qualifications, it often felt like a game of “who do you know?” So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and started a small tea business. But while I love tea, it wasn’t exactly making me rich. My profits were barely enough to survive. I knew I needed something more stable.

Q: How did you transition to the green economy?
A: Call it fate, luck, or just being at the right place at the right time! I spotted a job vacancy posted at CAMS Engineering’s office gate and thought, why not? I applied and got in as a cashier, but the best part? I wasn’t just handling numbers; I also got to be part of something bigger - Vermi-compost production! Plus, CAMS offered me training in some pretty cool areas like biogas production and entrepreneurship. Suddenly, I wasn’t just working; I was learning and growing in an industry that actually makes a difference.

Q: How has the transition been?
A: A game-changer. My tea business used to bring in 1,500 Birr per month (barely enough to breathe), and now I’m earning 4,200 Birr! That means I can finally plan for the future instead of just surviving day by day. And the training? Eye-opening! especially the entrepreneurship course. Now, when I dream, I don’t just see obstacles; I see possibilities.

Q: How did getting a job at CAMS help you?
A: First, let’s talk about financial freedom, because wow, what a difference a steady paycheck makes! No more stressing over every coin. But beyond the money, this job has given me confidence. I’m gaining skills, working in my hometown (so no need to relocate), and getting real hands-on experience in a field that matters. And let’s not forget, it’s also fueling my bigger dream of opening my clothing boutique one day!

Q: What advice do you have for young people still looking for work?
A: Don’t give up! The job hunt can feel like a wild goose chase, but keep pushing. And most importantly - believe in yourself. We can achieve anything we put our minds to. Opportunities are out there; sometimes, you just have to be bold enough to grab them (even if it means applying to a job posted on a gate!). Stay ready, stay strong, and when the door opens, walk through it like you own the place!

Silent signals - Who might hire you soon in the e-mobility sector

• Spiro partners with Airtel Money to Ease Electric Motorcycle Financing. This initiative is expected to empower Ugandans by facilitating self-employment through access to affordable electric motorcycles.

• Hyundai is accelerating the construction of its automotive plant in Algeria, reinforcing its commitment to local vehicle production.

• The South African government will allocate R1 billion ($54.27 million) to boost local manufacturing of new energy vehicles, batteries, and related components, driving growth in the green automotive sector.

• Nigerian Army converts 60 vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and secures over $2 million in support for expansion.