Safaricom invests in Nairobi-based package delivery start-up
Kenyan mobile network operator Safaricom has announced that it is investing in Sendy, a Nairobi-based package delivery start-up. Sendy is the first start-up to benefit from the Spark Fund, which Safaricom launched in November last year.
Launched in September 2014, Sendy offers a marketplace for last-mile package delivery and logistics services, allowing customers to send packages and documents in the Nairobi area using a mobile application that connects them to motorcycle riders, and drivers of vans and pickup trucks.
Meshack Alloys, CEO of Sendy, commented: “Having Safaricom believe in us enough to come on board as an investor is a big boost to our business. We intend to use the funds received to invest in our infrastructure, improve our platform, roll out new features and services and grow our team so that we can provide an even better customer experience.”
Joe Ogutu, Safaricom’s Director for Strategy & Innovation, said: “We are very pleased to be investing in Sendy, a business with a young, vibrant, innovative and ambitious team. Through Sendy we believe we are investing in more than just a start-up; we’re investing in a business that will transform the lives of everyone it touches, from the customer, to the boda-boda operator to the techie building & maintain the platform.”
In addition to Safaricom’s investment, Sendy will also have access to strategic partnerships, network elements, and a mix of marketing opportunities that will help it expand.
