As Uganda’s on-demand delivery market continues to grow alongside increased digital adoption, Glovo has established itself as a leading force in convenience, innovation, and inclusion. Since launching in Uganda, the tech-powered platform has transformed how consumers access food, groceries, and everyday essentials bridging local businesses with digital opportunities. At the helm of this transformation is Ivy Maingi, Glovo Uganda’s General Manager, who is driving the company toward sustainable growth, operational excellence, and community empowerment.
In an exclusive interview with The Independent’s Julius Businge, Maingi discusses Glovo’s journey, her leadership approach, and how the company is shaping Uganda’s digital commerce landscape.
Q: Can you walk us through your journey to becoming General Manager of Glovo Uganda and the experiences that shaped your leadership style?
A: My journey with Glovo began in January 2023 when I joined as Commercial Manager for Kenya, leading strategic growth across key verticals and partner portfolios. That role strengthened my appreciation for local partnerships, data-driven decisions, and agile execution. In April 2024, I moved to Uganda a market full of potential and entrepreneurial spirit. My leadership philosophy is grounded in curiosity, clarity, and collective success: asking the right questions, setting clear direction, and empowering people to thrive.
Q: Glovo recently marked five years in Uganda with a Shs 33 billion investment. What impact has this milestone had on the economy and local communities?
A: Our five-year journey in Uganda has been truly transformative. The Shs 33 billion investment has created more than 6,000 jobs across our offices, partner stores, restaurants, and rider network. Over 3,000 local shops mainly SMEs now sell through Glovo, generating about Shs 143 billion in direct economic value. We’re also proud that Uganda is Glovo’s greenest market, with nearly 40% of deliveries completed using electric motorbikes. This investment goes beyond growth it’s about building an inclusive, digital, and sustainable economy that empowers Ugandans.
Q: What major challenges have you faced in leadership, and how have they shaped your approach at Glovo?
A: Each African market presents unique challenges, from logistics to digital adoption. Growth here isn’t linear it requires creativity and patience. Scaling teams while maintaining high standards taught me the importance of building systems rather than chasing short-term results. At Glovo Uganda, that means focusing on strong foundations, clear processes, and empowered teams.
Q: Are there leaders in the tech or delivery space you admire?
A: I greatly admire Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo, for her discipline, clarity, and balance between intellect and empathy in leadership.
Q: What defines your management philosophy?
A: Clarity drives confidence, and confidence drives results. I believe in setting clear goals, providing context, and trusting my team to take ownership. Every order delivered supports a business, fulfills a customer need, and sustains livelihoods that perspective keeps us motivated.
Q: How does Glovo navigate Uganda’s regulatory environment?
A: Through collaboration. We work closely with regulators, sharing insights and advocating for policies that promote digital inclusion for small businesses and consumers. We aim to demonstrate that technology platforms can be valuable partners in national development.
Q: How do you balance efficiency with innovation?
A: By combining data-driven decisions with a culture of experimentation. We continually optimize operations while testing new ideas and community initiatives. Agility is key knowing when to standardize and when to innovate.
Q: Where do you see Glovo Uganda in the next five years?
A: Our goal is to become Uganda’s most trusted platform for everyday convenience. We’ll continue to expand local partnerships, enhance operational excellence, and pursue sustainable growth through innovation. Ultimately, we want to help build Africa by empowering local businesses through technology.
Q: Your final message to stakeholders…
A: To our partners, customers, and riders thank you for believing in Glovo. Our mission is to build the largest local marketplace where anyone can access anything within minutes. We’re committed to growing with Uganda and powering its digital future.