Mawingu Networks Ltd., a Kenyan internet service provider committed to underserved communities, has successfully raised $20 million in Series C funding to scale its affordable broadband services across rural areas. The round was led entirely by Johannesburg-based Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Managers, underscoring investor confidence in Mawingu’s mission to deliver connectivity where it is needed most. Currently serving over 120,000 Kenyans, the company now sets its sights on connecting one million East Africans by 2028.

The investment is not just a financing milestone but a validation of Mawingu’s model and impact-driven mission. CEO Farouk Ramji emphasized that raising capital in today’s environment requires resilience and execution, reflecting the strength of the company’s people and approach. With connectivity increasingly becoming a cornerstone of opportunity and development, this funding positions Mawingu as a key enabler of digital inclusion.

Mawingu has already begun its regional expansion, having entered Tanzania in 2024 through the acquisition of Habari, a long-standing internet service provider. Backed by $15 million in debt-and-equity financing from Africa Go Green Fund, InfraCo Africa, and Dutch development bank FMO, Mawingu is pursuing a buy-and-build strategy to scale across East Africa. By targeting local ISPs, the company accelerates growth while leveraging existing infrastructure and customer bases to close connectivity gaps.

At its core, Mawingu is focused on bridging the digital divide in rural and peri-urban areas. By deploying solar-powered wireless technology and community-based distribution, the company is able to offer affordable services in regions where traditional telecom operators face challenges. This innovative approach has attracted backing from impact-driven investors including E3 Capital, FMO Investment Management, InfraCo Africa, and Microsoft.

With the latest Series C funding, Mawingu will first strengthen its presence in Kenya before expanding further into East Africa. Its mission to democratize internet access aligns with broader efforts to ensure that underserved populations are not left behind in the digital economy. As demand for connectivity grows, Mawingu is positioning itself as a regional leader in delivering affordable, sustainable, and transformative broadband solutions.