Mawingu, Kenya’s internet service provider for rural and peri-urban markets, is celebrating a decade of impactful connectivity, largely due to a partnership with Microsoft that has connected nearly 100,000 people and institutions across 30 counties in Kenya, with recent expansion into Tanzania.
Founded in 2012 by a group of entrepreneurs in Nanyuki, Mawingu aimed to address the significant challenges of connectivity in East Africa, particularly in areas with limited infrastructure, where reliable high-speed internet was both scarce and costly.
The social enterprise model of Mawingu has since transformed the landscape of digital inclusion in underserved regions. In 2013, Microsoft recognized the potential of Mawingu’s vision and provided a grant to help pilot affordable wireless broadband.
This collaboration has evolved into a decade-long partnership based on innovation, strategic investments, and shared goals.
Speaking about the milestone, Farouk Ramji, CEO of Mawingu, said: “The internet provides equal opportunities for everyone. By connecting previously underserved communities, the partnership has opened up new possibilities for innovation and participation in the global economy, underlining the importance of inclusive connectivity for Africa’s growth.”
