Master Power Systems is the brainchild of Mukesh Hirani. Having worked in various electrical contracting firms, Mukesh was drawn to start a similar business. He had nurtured good relationships and felt he could use his networking skills to build his own client base. In late 2001 Mukesh felt it was time to launch out. His father cautioned him, feeling that he was taking a big risk but Mukesh was determined to be his own boss even though he didn’t have any capital to start with. He secured his first contract on the basis of his good relationships. His cousin then lent him a pick up truck to ferry supplies. He then leveraged his contacts to get supplier credit. Savings tided him over until he collected his first cheque. Today, the business is working on electrical installation projects all over Kenya. Master Power Systems focuses purely on the corporate market. Its growth is attributable to quality service coupled with competitive pricing. Added to that, its good relationships with construction companies and engineering firms assure it of a constant stream of business. Its revenues were strong well before the construction industry gained momentum in 2003. The company employs 140 people and opened a business in Uganda early this year when it became evident that it was important to diversify geographic risk and earn revenues from other markets rather than just Kenya. The Uganda business is run by Mukesh’s partner Jadavji Patel. Mukesh admits that had no big vision when he started, his focus was purely financial independence and to be his own boss. Indeed, the company is yet to formulate a vision and mission statement.
Mukesh, (who is in his thirties), advises young people who want to go into business to have a clear purpose, and be focused. He also highlights the importance of being proactive rather than passive. “Don’t sit under a mango tree waiting for a mango to fall. Be prepared to give yourself fully to the business. And give your best to your customers.” | 
