Owner of Tobinco Group of Companies: “I Started Business with Just GH¢1 Capital”

Samuel Amo Tobbin, the founder and Executive Chairman of the Tobinco Group of Companies, recently shared his inspiring journey of starting his pharmaceutical business with a mere GH¢1 capital and growing it into a successful enterprise. In an interview with Zionfelix, Tobbin recounted his humble beginnings and the pivotal moments that led to the establishment of the Tobinco Group of Companies as a prominent name in the pharmaceutical industry.

Tobbin revealed that his introduction to the pharmaceutical business came from a Muslim named Alhaji Baba, who lived near his home. Tobbin and his sibling used to assist Alhaji Baba by carrying his goods home, which fostered a friendship between them. After completing basic school, Tobbin had saved GH¢1 from selling items like P.K. gum.

“Shortly after I completed basic school, I had made GH¢1 from selling P.K. and other things. Note, I am not talking about GH¢1 in today’s value; I am talking about it as in 1984,” Tobbin said. Inspired by Alhaji Baba, Tobbin decided to invest his savings into selling medicines, marking the beginning of his venture into pharmaceuticals.

He approached Alhaji Baba with his GH¢1 and sought advice on what to do next. Alhaji Baba bought some medicines for Tobbin to sell, kickstarting his journey in the industry. Over time, through consistent effort and investment, Tobbin’s business grew.

Tobbin also acknowledged the significant support he received from the brothers of Ernest Bediako Sampong, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ernest Chemist Limited. “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,” he noted.

Today, Tobinco Pharmaceuticals is one of Ghana’s prestigious companies, making substantial contributions to the pharmaceutical industry and creating numerous jobs. The Tobinco Group of Companies is also active in the real estate sector, addressing housing challenges in the country.