Two inseparable friends — Ruhanga Akatoraana Sheeba S.V. Kakuba and Esther Yawe Ntwatwa — have officially launched Vivi Cleaning Solutions, a first-of-its-kind mobile app that connects Ugandans to reliable and professional cleaning services.
The milestone event took place at Kagera Hall, Hotel Africana, in Kampala and was graced by Hon. Sarah Kanyike Ssebagala, the Senior Presidential Advisor for Kampala Affairs, who applauded the pair for their courage and ingenuity in addressing a common household challenge through technology.
The Birth of Vivi: From Frustration to Innovation
In a heartfelt speech, Sheeba Kakuba shared the deeply personal story behind Vivi’s creation — one born out of disappointment and resilience.
She narrated how years of frustration with unreliable domestic help pushed her to seek a lasting solution. Despite her best efforts to treat her house-helps kindly, Sheeba often found herself stranded when they left abruptly, sometimes without notice.
“At one point, after my maid suddenly left, I went into a mini depression and a three-day fast,” Sheeba revealed emotionally. “I needed a solution that would bring stability and peace of mind to people like me.”
During that low point, her best friend Esther stepped in — not just as emotional support but as the spark of inspiration.
“Esther encouraged me to think bigger,” Sheeba said. “Instead of complaining, she challenged me to turn my frustration into innovation.”
What began as an idea for a maid-hiring service soon evolved into a digital platform — a modern app that simplifies access to cleaning professionals who are vetted, trained, and accountable.
Initially named “Dust-Off”, the duo later rebranded to “Vivi” after discovering that the original name was already registered. The new name, Vivi, was chosen in honor of Sheeba’s late father, symbolizing hard work, integrity, and legacy — the very principles that guide their mission.
Empowering Women Through Tech and Entrepreneurship
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Sarah Kanyike praised Sheeba and Esther for demonstrating that women are not just users of technology but also innovators shaping the future.
“We live in a time when technology is not a luxury but a necessity,” Hon. Kanyike noted. “It influences how we work, earn, and even manage our homes. The Vivi Cleaning App is proof that innovation can make everyday life easier while empowering others.”
She further emphasized that projects like Vivi are key to Uganda’s digital transformation and women’s economic empowerment.
“I am proud that this innovation is led by two super ladies, Sheeba and Esther,” she added. “The Vivi App showcases what happens when women are given the opportunity to dream, create, and lead.”
How the Vivi Cleaning App Works
The Vivi Cleaning App serves as a bridge between clients and professional cleaners. Through the app, users can:
- Book vetted cleaning professionals for homes, offices, and events.
- Schedule services at their convenience.
- Pay securely online and receive service confirmations instantly.
- Rate and review their experience for transparency and accountability.
By bringing structure and reliability to Uganda’s informal domestic work sector, the platform doesn’t just offer convenience — it also creates jobs and promotes dignity in domestic work.
“The Vivi Cleaning App is not just a platform but a job-creating tool,” Hon. Kanyike reiterated. “It connects cleaners to clients safely and efficiently, helping young people and women earn income and gain financial independence.”
A Celebration of Vision and Resilience
The launch event was filled with emotion, pride, and hope as guests, family members, and friends applauded the founders’ perseverance. From humble beginnings to a national stage, Sheeba and Esther’s journey symbolizes what’s possible when determination meets innovation.
The two friends expressed gratitude to everyone who supported their journey — from mentors and tech developers to family members who believed in their vision.
“This is more than an app,” Esther said. “It’s a movement — one that brings professionalism, trust, and empowerment to every Ugandan home.”
A Bright Future Ahead for Vivi
As Uganda’s tech scene continues to grow, Vivi Cleaning Solutions stands out as a proudly female-led innovation making real social impact. The startup plans to expand its services nationwide, recruit and train more professional cleaners, and partner with organizations promoting youth employment and gender equality.
“When women thrive, families, communities, and the nation progress,” Hon. Kanyike concluded — a statement that perfectly captured the spirit of the evening.
With a mix of vision, friendship, and innovation, Sheeba and Esther have not only launched a business — they’ve sparked a movement that could redefine how Ugandans approach home management and service delivery in the digital age.
💬 Would you use an app like Vivi to find trusted cleaning professionals?
Join the conversation and stay tuned to E! Page One for more inspiring stories of innovation and empowerment from Uganda’s rising entrepreneurs.
