Kenyan Internet Service Provider (ISP) Mawingu has secured KSh 1.9 billion ($15 million) in debt and equity financing to accelerate its growth strategy across East Africa. The fresh funding will support the company’s acquisition of Habari, a long-established Tanzanian ISP with more than 25 years of experience delivering Internet and ICT solutions in seven regions.
Who’s Backing the Expansion?
The financing package includes:
- Africa Go Green Fund (AGG), managed by Cygnum Capital → KSh 1.4 billion ($11 million) in long-term senior debt.
- InfraCo Africa (PIDG) and Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO) → KSh 0.5 billion ($4 million) in equity investment.
This backing provides Mawingu with the capital to scale its affordable home Internet proposition across underserved communities in Tanzania and beyond.
Acquiring Habari
Through the acquisition of Habari, Mawingu gains a solid foothold in the Tanzanian market. Habari’s experience in rural and peri-urban connectivity complements Mawingu’s mission of bridging the digital gap across East Africa.
CEO Farouk Ramji explains: “This acquisition, alongside the $15 million financing, brings us closer to impacting 1,000,000 East Africans by 2028. Mawingu and Habari share the same values and dedication to connecting rural and peri-urban communities.”
Tackling East Africa’s Digital Gap
Despite growing demand, Tanzania has only 300,000 connected homes out of 14 million, highlighting the urgent need for affordable broadband solutions.
Mawingu’s buy-and-build strategy focuses on acquiring and scaling successful ISPs in underserved markets. By doing so, the company aims to:
- Deliver affordable Internet to homes and small businesses
- Build sustainable networks in rural and peri-urban areas
- Drive social and economic development through digital inclusion
Comments
- Laurène Aigrain, Africa Go Green Fund: “We’re proud to back an ISP expanding Internet access sustainably. This investment is aligned with our mission to promote climate-friendly growth in Africa.”
- Claire Jarratt, InfraCo Africa: “Mawingu’s expansion demonstrates how innovation and affordability can unlock digital potential while attracting private finance into rural Internet markets.”
- Marieke Roestenberg, FMO Ventures: “We are excited to support Mawingu’s first international expansion. Affordable Internet access remains one of Africa’s most powerful tools for development.”
With Habari under its wing, Mawingu is well positioned to replicate its Kenyan success in Tanzania and across East Africa. The company’s ambition is clear: deliver meaningful connectivity to 1 million East Africans by 2028.
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