KOFISI, a leading pan-African operator in hospitality and workspace, is redefining economic growth on the continent by advocating for investment in ambitious, large-scale operators over traditional fund models.
With a recent backing of $10.5 million led by London’s Falco Group, part of a broader $35 million project financing raise, KOFISI is making the case for something larger than funding. A new model for how serious investors should deploy capital in Africa. One where scale, durability and operatorship, not fragmented projects, sit at the core of investment strategy.
For decades, global capital has approached Africa through a narrow lens with small checks, short timelines, and a fixation on fast returns. The result has been predictable – capital goes in, but little stays behind to transform industries, ecosystems, or communities.
For instance, microfinance programmes in East Africa during the early 2000s delivered modest benefits to individual entrepreneurs but failed to create the large-scale economic ecosystems needed for sustained growth. Similarly, standard funds investing in isolated infrastructure projects, like small rural roads, have struggled to deliver transformative impact due to limited scalability and coordination with established partners.
Since 2023, 80% of all funding into Africa from global private capital has been invested into fintech companies, especially those offering payment solutions. (The majority of those are based in Nigeria 28%, Kenya, Egypt and South Africa.) While these can deliver attractive marks for investors, they rarely build lasting platforms as they aren’t aligned with African realities.
Funds have historically favoured piecemeal microfinance schemes and standalone infrastructure bets that rely heavily on private capital flow. However, there is a growing recognition that sustainable growth in Africa requires a partnership model.
KOFISI CEO and founder Michael Aldridge believes the answer lies with powerhouse operators. Firms deeply embedded in the market, with both the vision and the courage to build something of consequence.
Armed with on-the-ground experience and a deep understanding of local markets, businesses like his are best placed to align capital with Africa’s future needs, such as building to scale, delivering prosperity for communities and competitive returns for investors.
Aldridge said, “Africa is the market of the future. To win here, you need patience, partnership and a willingness to bet on transformation. The continent’s growth, resources and people are unmatched. The question isn’t whether to invest but how to do it wisely and how to be part of the story as it unfolds. Investors should focus on sectors where Africa’s unique advantages, its youth, resources and integration, can be leveraged while managing risks with local insight and diversified strategies.”
By aligning with operators like KOFISI, the privately owned Falco Group aims to disrupt the conventional investment landscape by offering a multi-asset investment platform. The aim is to foster ecosystems that create jobs and enhance productivity. Other funds like Novastar Ventures and TLcom Capital have begun prioritising companies with pan-African potential, focusing on sectors like technology and construction that promise both financial returns and societal benefits.
KOFISI has proven the model of a dynamic industry, having established eleven centres across six African countries, with a footprint nearing 500,000 square feet. In 2024 alone, KOFISI achieved 40% growth, expanding existing centres and opening new ones in Kenya and Morocco. With plans to develop 1 million square feet of premium workspace across Africa, supported by a $35 million Series B capital raise, KOFISI is setting a new standard for scale and ambition.
The $10.5 million investment from Falco Group will propel KOFISI’s expansion, including a new 100,000 square foot location in Nairobi and upcoming sites in Kigali, Cairo and other key markets. This investment signals a shift toward operator-driven growth, offering investors both financial returns and measurable societal impact.
Its partnerships with global enterprises like Amazon Web Services, Google, and BOLT demonstrate its ability to drive market expansion.
Initiatives like Africa’s largest private gallery of African art within shared offices and a hospitality academy underscore its innovative edge. Its green operations, including 90% sustainable kitchens, recycling programs and a sustainable uniform programme, reflect a commitment to socially responsible growth. Large operators like KOFISI are critical for job creation and economic stability. By establishing a training institute and championing regenerative principles, it prioritises people and minimises environmental impact.
Africa’s future demands a new approach, one where investors back local corporations that have proven execution records for regional transformation. The continent needs large firms that are capable of systemic change as well as boosting economies.
KOFISI is a leading African workspace provider, operating 500,000 square feet of premium, hospitality-led workspaces across multiple markets. By combining global aesthetics with locally inspired elements, KOFISI delivers innovative, generative, and award-winning workspace solutions for enterprises like Amazon, Google, and BOLT. With a focus on scalability, societal impact, and ambitious leadership, KOFISI is redefining the future of work in Africa.
