Mawingu Marks 10 Years of Expanding Digital Access in Rural Kenya and Beyond
Mawingu, Kenya’s largest internet service provider targeting rural and peri-urban areas, is marking 10 years of transformative digital inclusion, driven by a long-standing partnership with Microsoft. The collaboration has connected nearly 100,000 people and institutions in 30 Kenyan counties and recently expanded services into Tanzania.
Founded in Nanyuki in 2012, Mawingu was established by local entrepreneurs determined to tackle East Africa’s digital divide. Operating as a social enterprise, the company focused on providing affordable, reliable internet in underserved regions where high-speed connectivity was once inaccessible.
In 2013, Microsoft recognized Mawingu’s potential and awarded a grant to pilot affordable wireless broadband. This marked the beginning of a decade-long partnership focused on innovation and inclusion.
“The internet provides equal opportunities for everyone,” said Mawingu CEO Farouk Ramji. “Our work with Microsoft has helped connect communities long left behind, empowering them to participate in the global digital economy.”
Microsoft Kenya Country Manager Phyllis Migwi underscored the broader impact of the partnership: “Connectivity is the foundation of the digital economy. Strategic collaborations like this are crucial to unlocking Africa’s digital future.”
A $4.1 million investment by the U.S. Development Finance Corporation in 2016 further boosted Mawingu’s reach, extending coverage to over three million people. Microsoft’s continued technical support, including tools like Azure and Power BI, enabled the provider to scale operations and enhance service delivery.
Beyond infrastructure, Mawingu launched the Mawingu Foundation to promote digital literacy and inclusion. The Foundation offers subsidized internet to health centers and schools, and trains youth, women, and people with disabilities. A recent Microsoft grant will connect hundreds of institutions in 2024, benefiting 2,500 learners with special needs.
Looking ahead, Mawingu aims to reach one million East Africans by 2028, ensuring digital transformation leaves no one behind.
