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Kenya-based craft beverage company African Originals has raised $2m in a funding round led by Phoenix Beverages.

African Originals’ beverage brand portfolio includes Kenyan Originals, African Originals and 5.8. The funds raised will support the company’s expansion, bolster its production capabilities and further its sustainability initiatives as it scales its operations in Kenya and internationally.

Other key investors in the round include Chandaria Capital, Perivoli Innovations and Amaya Capital. As part of its growth strategy, African Originals previously launched a 700,000 crowdfunding campaign on the Crowdcube platform, allowing consumers and employees to own shares in the company. In addition to fostering community engagement, this helped advance growth plans for new product lines, including a recently launched craft gin.

The company currently has a growing presence in the UK and across Africa, celebrating Kenyan culture with its range of beverages that draw from traditional African flavours using locally sourced ingredients. Since its inception in 2018, it has broadened its portfolio to include craft ciders, tonics, mixers and iced teas.

Alexandra Chappatte, founder and CEO of African Orginals, commented: “The next phase of our journey is focused on building capacity while continuing to deliver high-quality, locally-inspired beverages that celebrate Kenyan craftsmanship. With this capital, we’re investing in the brand and setting the stage for even greater expansion.”

In a statement announcing the funding raise, African Originals said its success is part of a ‘growing trend of female-led African start-ups securing investment,’ while highlighting Africa’s challenging funding environment, with less than 1% of total global funding allocated across the entire continent. The company said its growth also reflects the growing interest in non-tech sectors across Africa, with an expanding focus on industries such as food and beverages.

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