Catalyst Principal Partners LLC has announced that it has acquired a minority interest in Kensta Group, a 52-year-old family run business in the printing and packaging industry.
Kensta is headquartered in Kenya and has operations in four East African countries and Zambia. Kensta Group manages a number of companies within East Africa; Transpaper (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda), Express Automation (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda), Vivid Printing Equipment, Fusion Inks, Zenith Rubber Rollers and Phiramid (Zambia).
“The primary goal of this partnership between Catalyst and Kensta is to enhance and grow Kensta’s well-established business model and existing presence in East and Central Africa through vertical and geographical expansion. We have confidence in the committed and skilled management team that adopts its business to new trends to deliver market needs and taps into regional prospects while providing opportunities to potential entrepreneurs.” Catalyst Managing Director Rajal Upadhyaya said.
Catalyst’s equity funding and expertise will provide Kensta with a unique opportunity to restructure and stimulate growth through existing and new distribution channels, development and innovation.
“Catalyst’s investment in Kensta is an affirmation of our potential and growth trajectory as we enhance our business, regional presence and product portfolio. Our aim is to continuously innovate and confidently undertake business expansion to provide powerful, cutting edge and agile solutions that will benefit our customers, our employees and our industry.” said Priyesh Shah, CEO of Kensta.
Catalyst has invested in nine companies across the region. In Kenya, it holds stakes in Jamii Bora Bank and Orbit Chemical Industries.
Catalyst’s other portfolio companies outside Kenya include include Chai Bora, ChemiCotex, Effco Solutions and Zenufa Laboratories all in Tanzania and Yes Brands in Ethiopia.
