Kijenge Animal Products
Diversified agro-processing company that engages in animal feed production and poultry (broiler) farming and processing.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
$6.0m | Growth Equity VC | ||
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
In 1971, in Arusha, Tanzania, a company called Kijenge Animal Products was founded. For decades, under the leadership of its founder and Chairman, Andrew Mollel, the company established itself as a key local player in agro-processing. Its business was straightforward and essential: maize milling, producing animal feed, and poultry farming. Kijenge built a solid brand name in the Tanzanian market through years of steady operation. A pivotal chapter in the company's story began in July 2015. After considering various partners, Kijenge announced a significant event. The East Africa-focused private equity firm, Fanisi Capital, invested $6 million for a substantial minority stake in the business. This wasn't a typical Silicon Valley startup deal; it was about injecting growth capital into a long-established enterprise. The partnership was designed to launch Kijenge into its next phase. The capital infusion was earmarked to upgrade production infrastructure and diversify its product offerings, further supporting customer needs. For Fanisi, it was a strategic entry into the Tanzanian market, backing a company with a strong history and entrepreneurial spirit. The deal represented a classic playbook move: combining a trusted local brand with external capital to unlock a new level of scale and growth.