KENYA’S MAWINGU ACQUIRES HABARI NODETO EXPAND DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY IN EA

Kenya’s leading Internet Service Provider (ISP), Mawingu, has announced its acquisition of Habari Node, an Arusha-based ISP operating across seven regions in Tanzania. Habari, a pioneer with over 25 years of experience in delivering Internet and ICT solutions to rural households and businesses in Tanzania, confirmed the development. Erik Rowlberg, Habari’s Founder and CEO, assured clients that the transition would not disrupt existing services. “The previous corporate business remains the same. This is a new home product,” Rowlberg said. The acquisition aligns with Mawingu’s vision of bridging the digital divide in East Africa by providing reliable and affordable Internet services in areas traditionally overlooked due to high capital costs and logistical challenges. Mawingu has raised KSh 1.9 billion ($15 million) in debt and equity financing to support its regional expansion. The Africa Go Green Fund (AGG), managed by Cygnum Capital, has provided KSh 1.4 billion ($11 million) in long-term senior debt. Additional funding of KSh 0.5 billion ($4 million) comes from InfraCo Africa, part of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) and the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO). “This acquisition allows us to replicate our successes in Kenya across Tanzania and East Africa. Our goal is to scale affordable home Internet access to underserved communities through strategic acquisitions and growth,” said Mawingu’s CEO, Farouk Ramji. Mr Ramjihai led the partnership as a landmark moment for Africa ’s telecommunications market. “Mawingu has grown from a start-up into a major Kenyan telco player. Through this acquisition, we are expanding our footprint and impact across East Africa. By combining our shared values and strong financial foundations with Habari, we aim to connect 1 million East Africans by 2028.” Mawingu, which began in 2012 in Nanyuki, Kenya, as a rural-focused ISP, has grown into the country’s largest ISP for rural and peri-urban markets, connecting over 20,000 homes and businesses across 30 counties. This acquisition positions the company to extend its reach into Tanzania and beyond, continuing its mission to deliver meaningful Internet connectivity to underserved communities. With its disciplined “buyand-build” strategy, Mawingu aims to rapidly broaden its impact by acquiring successful ISPs in target markets, furthering its commitment to transforming lives through digital inclusion.