NAIROBI – In a move to revolutionize East Africa’s agricultural and health supply chains, Mirova has announced a landmark $19 million investment in Cold Solutions Kiambu (SEZ) Limited.
The financing, executed through the Mirova Gigaton Fund, aims to scale energy-efficient refrigeration and bolster food security across the region.
As an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers dedicated to sustainable investing, Mirova’s capital injection will support the continued ramp-up of this flagship infrastructure project located within the Tatu City Special Economic Zone.
Agri-Solar Innovation at Tatu City
Cold Solutions Kiambu is setting a new global benchmark by integrating renewable energy directly into large-scale logistics.
The Tatu City facility features a cutting-edge rooftop solar system that generates approximately 30% of the energy required for its massive operations.
In addition to its solar capacity, the warehouse utilizes ammonia refrigerants, a sustainable alternative that poses no threat to global warming.
This “Agri-solar” approach not only reduces operational carbon but also provides a more resilient and cost-effective storage model for temperature-sensitive goods.
Enhancing Food Security and Healthcare
The scale of the infrastructure is significant for the regional economy. By offering approximately 15,000 pallet positions, Cold Solutions Kiambu effectively tackles the chronic issue of post-harvest spoilage.
This is vital for Agriculture where it will help in reducing food loss and increasing income for local farmers.
In addition, the Pharmaceuticals sector will benefit by ensuring the integrity of medical supplies and vaccine efficacy throughout the distribution chain.
John Kimotho, Investment Director at Mirova Kenya, emphasized the broader impact of the deal.
“This financing exemplifies how the Mirova Gigaton Fund aims to accelerate transformative climate solutions in emerging markets,” Kimotho stated. “By backing Cold Solutions Kiambu, we’re scaling clean-powered, climate-aligned, and operationally resilient cold chain infrastructure, critical for food security and health systems across East Africa.”
Alignment with Global Sustainability Goals
This strategic partnership extends beyond logistics, contributing actively to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Specifically, the project addresses SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Furthermore, the collaboration highlights a shared vision between Mirova and ARCH Emerging Markets Partners.
Suki Muia, Investment Director at ARCH, noted the importance of the partnership, noting:”Our partnership with Mirova underscores our commitment to working with like-minded investors to reduce food loss and strengthen food systems, and vaccine efficacy across East Africa — all in a sustainable, energy-efficient manner.”
Future Outlook for Mirova Gigaton
Structured as a blended finance vehicle, the Mirova Gigaton Fund continues to target high-impact climate solutions in the Global South.
By providing flexible, long-term debt to commercially viable models like Cold Solutions Kiambu, the fund aims to bridge the financing gap in the distributed renewable energy sector.
With this latest investment, Mirova reaffirms its dedication to impactful emerging market projects that harmonize economic growth with environmental responsibility.