In the heart of Budondo Sub-County, Jinja, a quiet revolution in health and wellness is unfolding—powered by avocado seeds and the visionary mind of one woman: Mubeezi Irene Lydia, founder of East Star Health Products Ltd. What began as a modest venture in December 2019 has grown into a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and resilience. Her company transforms often-overlooked local resources into affordable health products that address real nutritional needs, especially for people suffering from anaemia.
In 2022, Irene’s bold idea and unwavering belief in natural solutions earned her 3rd place in the Manufacturing Category of the dfcu Rising Woman Initiative. But her story is about much more than a title. It’s about turning challenges into opportunities, passion into purpose, and a seed—quite literally—into a thriving enterprise.
The Spark Behind the Startup
Irene’s journey into entrepreneurship was not driven by profit, but by purpose. Observing the nutritional struggles faced by people in her community, particularly those dealing with anaemia, she saw a gap that conventional medicine wasn’t fully addressing.
“I realized that avocado seeds, usually discarded, are rich in nutrients like folic acid, potassium, and iron,” she says. “So I started processing them into powder as a natural, sustainable supplement.”
From there, East Star Health Products began producing a range of items—from avocado seed powder, okra seed powder, and rosemary powder to avocado-based jellies, creams, teas, and oils. Nothing goes to waste. Even the avocado flesh is used in creams, and the oil extracted from the fruit enriches her formulations. In Uganda’s competitive health products market, Irene’s zero-waste philosophy and reliance on natural ingredients set her brand apart.
The dfcu Rising Woman Initiative
Her path to the dfcu Rising Woman stage started with curiosity. “I heard a radio announcement about the competition in 2019,” Irene recalls. “I didn’t have a registered business then, but I attended the event anyway. A man I met there encouraged me to formalize my business which I did.”
Although the pandemic stalled her momentum, Irene remained determined. She registered East Star Health Products and, once the lockdowns eased, submitted her application for the 2022 competition. Her business pitch, grounded in lived experience and a deep understanding of her process, impressed the judges.
“I was confident because it was my idea, my product, and I knew it inside out,” she says. “That authenticity and clarity helped me stand out.”
Uganda to host WFP Global Fleet Hub, establish unique humanitarian platesThe Power of Visibility
Winning third place wasn’t just an award; it became a marketing tool and a personal breakthrough. Irene now carries her dfcu Rising Woman title with pride, using it to elevate her brand and open doors to new networks.
“People saw me in the newspapers and on TV. That recognition built trust,” she says. “Now, customers know that I’m not just selling a product; I’m offering something tested, valued, and backed by experience.”
The competition also left her with invaluable business acumen. From record-keeping and customer service to separating personal and business finances, the lessons have been foundational.
“I learned to treat my customers with urgency and respect. I even deliver to them personally,” Irene says. “And I now pay myself a salary; something I never used to do.”
Rooted in Purpose, Growing with Impact
East Star Health Products continues to evolve; driven by Irene’s commitment to creating accessible, affordable, and locally made health solutions. As she reflects on her journey, it’s clear that this is only the beginning.
What started with an avocado seed has blossomed into a movement that empowers health, honors nature, and celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of Uganda’s women.
And Irene? She’s not just a dfcu Rising Woman. She’s a thriving one.
