Wasoko

Venture Capital Nairobi, Kenya ·Founded 2013

Overview

Wasoko, formerly known as Sokowatch, is a pan-African B2B e-commerce and logistics company that supplies consumer goods to informal retailers. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the company provides small shops with access to products, financing, and data-driven tools through a technology-enabled distribution platform. Wasoko operates in multiple African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, Ivory Coast, and Senegal, delivering millions of orders to thousands of informal retailers. The company has secured significant funding, including a $125 million Series B round in 2022, led by Tiger Global and Avenir Growth Capital, which valued the company at approximately $625 million. This funding has enabled Wasoko to expand its operations and product offerings across the continent, aiming to transform access to goods and services for African citizens. The company rebranded to Wasoko, meaning 'People of the Market' in Swahili, to reflect its broader pan-African focus and mission to serve informal retailers across the continent. Wasoko continues to innovate and grow, leveraging technology to streamline supply chains and provide essential goods to communities throughout Africa.

Investment Focus

  • Focus on informal retail sector
  • Technology-enabled distribution platform
  • Pan-African operational reach
  • Commitment to financial inclusion
  • Scalable business model
  • Strong data analytics capabilities
  • Experienced management team
  • Ability to navigate diverse African markets
  • Proven track record in e-commerce and logistics
  • Alignment with Wasoko's mission and values

Portfolio Companies

Procter & GambleCoca-ColaNestléDiageoUnileverHeineken

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Frequently asked questions about Wasoko

What sectors does Wasoko invest in?

Wasoko invests in Financial Services, Technology, Consumer Goods, Retail, Business Services and FinTech, and is based in Nairobi, Kenya. Wasoko is listed as a venture capital in the ConnectSafely investor database.

What stage does Wasoko invest at?

Wasoko backs companies at Seed, Early Stage, Growth and Late Stage, writing cheques of 1M - 50M.

Which regions does Wasoko invest in?

Wasoko invests across Ghana, Kenya, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria and South Africa.

What companies has Wasoko invested in?

Wasoko's portfolio includes Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, Nestlé, Diageo, Unilever and Heineken.

Last updated · Source: ConnectSafely investor database