Uhuru Investment Partners

Uhuru Investment Partners is a private equity firm based in West Africa, dedicated to unlocking the potential of middle-market companies across the region. The firm focuses on driving sustainable growth and creating long-term value by partnering with passionate entrepreneurs. They aim to become the investment partner of choice in Africa for both domestic and global investors, generating competitive returns alongside a positive and enduring impact on local communities.

Founded in 2016, Uhuru Investment Partners draws its inspiration from Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point, symbolizing their commitment to excellence and ambitious goals. The firm's approach emphasizes deep local knowledge, robust processes, and a commitment to excellence throughout the investment lifecycle. They work collaboratively with investors, entrepreneurs, employees, and communities to achieve success that matters, extending beyond financial returns to include significant social and environmental impact.

Uhuru Investment Partners primarily invests in high-growth, middle-market companies within West Africa, with a particular focus on Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire. Their portfolio includes companies such as Royal Foam Products Nigeria, a leading manufacturer of mattresses and bedding products; ST Digital, a regional IT services group providing cloud, datacenter, and cybersecurity solutions; Impact Life, a Ghanaian life insurance provider; and Everyday, one of Nigeria's largest supermarket chains. They also have investments in La Tulipe Food, an Ivorian food group, and Cresta Paints, a manufacturer of automotive refinish paints in West Africa. The firm typically invests as either minority or control investors, utilizing various equity and mezzanine instruments.

The team at Uhuru Investment Partners comprises local investors with a proven business and investment track record across West Africa. They provide hands-on support and strategic advice to their portfolio companies, acting as advisors to management teams and actively engaging in governance and value creation. Their expertise spans areas such as strategy, marketing, operations, and finance, complemented by an ESG toolkit to enhance the sustainability of their investments. Notable team members include Amaka Paul-Okafor, Managing Director, Private Equity; Francis Ojei, Finance & Operations Manager; Babatunde Makanjuola, Associate; Chuka Maduabum, Deal Execution and Portfolio Management; Dominique Lecossois, Operating Partner; Folakemi Oduwole, Associate, Investments; and George Sognon, Associate, Investments.