KENYA – African Originals Ltd (AOL), a Kenyan startup specializing in locally-sourced alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, has raised KES 257.4 million (US$2 million) from international investors.
The funding will be used to scale production, expand its product line, and grow its presence both in Kenya and beyond.
According to Capital Business, the investment came from Phoenix Beverages Limited, a Mauritius-based beverage company, alongside other key investors such as Chandaria Capital, Perivoli Innovations, and Amaya Capital.
This latest round of funding follows a previous move by AOL in 2023, where it ceded a 28.3 percent equity stake to Phoenix Beverages Group (PBG).
Alex Chappatte, CEO of African Originals Ltd, expressed excitement over this milestone, noting that the investment reflects confidence in the company’s vision.
“With this capital, through our three key brands—Kenyan Originals, African Originals, and 5.8—we’re poised to scale our operations, expand our product line, and deepen our impact within the Kenyan market and beyond,” said Chappatte.
AOL is known for crafting beverages using Kenya’s rich natural ingredients, including tropical fruits, botanicals, herbs, locally sourced honey, indigenous berries, tea, and coffee.
Chappatte added that AOL remains committed to sustainability and supporting local farmers while showcasing Kenyan flavors on a global scale.
With the funding, AOL aims to set a benchmark for quality and creativity, demonstrating that Kenyan brands, like Kenyan Originals, 5.8, and African Originals, can compete on a global scale.
Earlier this year, the company expanded its gin portfolio with the addition of Mara Edition gin, complementing its existing lineup of spirits, which includes KO Classic Gin and KO Purple Haze Gin.
During the World Gin Awards 2024, AOL received the Innovator of the Year Award, acknowledging the excellence of both the KO Purple Haze Gin and the Mara Gin Edition.
AOL also clinched the country winner title in the flavored gin category.
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