Rising Star: How Victoria Basemera Turned a Home Kitchen into a National Snack Brand
In Uganda’s highly competitive SME landscape, where many small businesses fail to reach their fifth anniversary, Extreme Little Stars Ltd stands out as a rare success. Founded by Victoria Basemera, the snack production and distribution company has grown from modest beginnings into a trusted supplier for major fuel stations like Total, Shell, Rubis, and Oryx.
Victoria’s journey began in her own kitchen after she left a structured banking job, uncertain of what the future held.
“I started baking cream cakes and delivering them myself to small shops,” she recalls. “It was humble, hands-on work—but it grew.”
A Breakthrough at the Fuel Pump
Her breakthrough came during a casual visit to a fuel station where a friend introduced her to a potential snack supply opportunity. That small lead snowballed into a full-scale business, with Extreme Little Stars now employing 15 full-time staff, including a logistics team ensuring pre-dawn deliveries across Kampala.
“We start work at 4 a.m. to make sure shelves are stocked before rush hour,” she said.
What sets her apart in the sector is a flexible return policy—a rarity in local food distribution.
“If our client can’t sell a product, we take it back. That builds trust,” Victoria explained.
National Spotlight: Rising Woman Finalist
In 2023, Victoria’s hard work was recognized when she placed 6th in dfcu Bank’s Rising Woman Initiative, under the Trade & Business Services category. She credits the initiative with transforming her business mindset.
“I realized I wasn’t just running a hustle. I was building a real enterprise,” she said.
Her son played a key role in the application process, and the experience led to valuable networking, including a trip to Nairobi, where she met women leading internationally competitive ventures.
“Those connections are now collaborators,” she shared.
Challenges, Growth, and What’s Next
Despite her progress, Victoria acknowledges one major hurdle: her production is still home-based. Plans are already in motion to establish a commercial-grade kitchen, a crucial step toward securing bigger contracts and scaling operations.
She also spoke candidly about the dual burden women entrepreneurs often carry in Uganda.
“We’re caregivers and CEOs. Many of us start businesses out of necessity, not strategy. We still need more real-world guidance tailored to women.”
Her advice to others?
“Never stop trying. The market will test you, but if you stay consistent, the results will come.”
Looking ahead, Victoria aims to expand into event catering for corporate and social functions—laying the groundwork for what she calls “a snack empire—one contract, one relationship at a time.”https://ugandatimes.ug/2025/06/16/victoria-basemera-extreme-little-stars-uganda-success/
