African Originals, the company behind popular craft beverage brands Kenyan Originals and 5.8, has successfully secured $2 million in funding, led by Phoenix Beverages Limited. This significant investment marks a major milestone for African Originals, enabling the company to scale its operations, expand its product range, and reinforce its commitment to sustainability and community impact.
The newly acquired capital will enhance African Originals’ production capabilities and support its plans to diversify its product offerings. The company aims to broaden its distribution network both within Kenya and on the international stage. This move reflects strong investor confidence in African Originals’ mission to showcase authentic Kenyan flavors to a wider audience.
African Originals is known for its use of Kenya’s rich natural ingredients, including tropical fruits, tea, coffee, honey, botanicals, and indigenous berries. The funding will bolster the company’s efforts to invest in its supply chain, ensuring continued access to premium ingredients while meeting increasing demand. The company remains dedicated to empowering local farmers and promoting sustainable practices.
The investment will also support African Originals’ collaborations with organizations such as Bees with Stories, which aids small-scale farmers and beekeepers. Additionally, the company plans to enhance its sustainability initiatives, focusing on reducing its carbon footprint and supporting biodiversity conservation efforts.
CEO Alex Chappatte, a pioneering female leader in Kenya’s business landscape, views this success as an inspiration for other women entrepreneurs, especially in non-traditional sectors. African Originals’ achievement underscores the potential for women-led businesses to attract significant investment and achieve rapid growth.
This funding round represents a critical step forward for African Originals as it continues to celebrate Kenyan craftsmanship, empower local communities, and set new benchmarks in the craft beverage industry. The company is poised to make a substantial impact both locally and globally.