Bboxx, the data-driven super platform, transforming lives and unlocking potential by connecting consumers and deploying innovative products across Africa, has moved its Headquarters from London to Kigali, reaffirming its commitment as an Africa-first company.
Bboxx announced this decision at the UK-Rwanda Business Forum in Kigali, underscoring its commitment to Africa to serve by training nearly 1000 more Rwandans in the next 5 years and investing USD$100 million in the country.
According to Mansoor Hamayun, CEO and Co-Founder of Bboxx, “In our journey to revolutionise access to essential products and services across Africa, it’s only fitting that we position ourselves at the heart of the continent. This move to Kigali not only brings us closer to the communities we serve but also cements our commitment to be an Africa-first, data-driven super platform, transforming lives and unlocking potential at an unprecedented scale.”
The firm also aims to reach 36 million people by 2028 – thanks to a USD$100 million partnership with Kuwaiti investment company EnerTech, announced in December 2023.
Founded in 2010, Bboxx has grown significantly since it first began tackling the challenge of energy poverty in Africa. In the 13 years since, it has expanded into 11 African markets – including providing electricity to more than 10% of Rwanda’s households – and has broadened the range of essential products and services from solar energy to include pay-as-you go clean cooking solutions, water pumps, smartphones, and even electric vehicles.
The firm believes Rwanda has modernised and transformed immeasurably over the past 20 years, has business-friendly policies including the Kigali International Financial Centre and upcoming Start-up Act and is home to a growing pool of tech and engineering talent, and is a prime location for growth and investment.
Kigali also offers easy access to the rest of Africa thanks to Rwandair, its national carrier. By moving its HQ and managing its operations in 11 countries from Kigali, Bboxx is positioning itself at the core of Africa’s rapidly evolving energy and technology sectors, enhancing access to key markets, and reaffirming Bboxx’s commitment to long-term, sustainable growth.
“Rwanda’s transformation into a hub for tech and innovation is no coincidence; it’s the result of deliberate policies, a conducive business environment, and our commitment to offer a competitive jurisdiction,” said Francis Gatare, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Development Board. “Bboxx’s decision to relocate its headquarters to Kigali is a welcome decision and aligns with our efforts for Rwanda as a magnet for smart, sustainable investments. Our unique ecosystem offers a fertile ground for companies like Bboxx to innovate and expand, signalling to the world that Rwanda is open for business and ready for the future.”
In addition, being closer to its customers allows Bboxx to better understand and meet the unique needs of every household and business it serves. This transition embodies Bboxx’s promise to stay rooted in the communities it serves, ensuring reliable and innovative solutions to the challenges they face.