I joined the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (Miti) in January 1992 after returning from pursuing but not having completed my PhD. Miti did even not know I was to report for duty.

As it was the first day of the month and year, I was ushered to an official meeting called a ‘morning assembly’ with the minister. The chief of administration introduced me to the secretary-general and some senior staff, and I was assigned to be deputy director of multi-lateral trade.