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Aquila East Africa, a top Kenyan integrated communications firm, has expanded its operations to Rwanda and Uganda, highlighting the potential for local businesses to drive economic growth across East Africa. The move aligns with Aquila’s 2023-2026 strategic plan, which aims to foster economic development and create strong market linkages in the region.
Kenyan SMEs have been on a significant upward trajectory, contributing over 30% of the country’s GDP and employing more than 80% of the workforce, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. Aquila’s regional expansion is a testament to the capacity of homegrown companies to scale and enhance the East African economic ecosystem.
Kester Muhanji, Managing Director at Aquila East Africa, emphasized the importance of this expansion: “As a Kenyan-based firm, we are proud to extend our services to new markets, reinforcing the impact of local businesses in driving regional economic progress. With our entry into Uganda and Rwanda, we aim to create a self-sustaining ecosystem of specialized services crucial for business resilience and growth across industries.”
To lead this ambitious regional expansion, Aquila has appointed Bonny L’Souza as Board Chair and Anne Ngatia as a board member. Together, they bring over 30 years of experience in business strategy, marketing, and operations, which will be instrumental in strengthening Aquila’s presence in Rwanda and Uganda.
“We are excited to welcome this distinguished advisory team to our leadership,” added Kester Muhanji. “Their expertise and strategic insights will guide us in delivering high-impact solutions that cater to regional market needs.”
Aquila’s expansion sends a strong message about the capabilities of Kenyan firms to not only dominate local markets but also establish a regional footprint. This growth underscores the vital role that SMEs play in Africa’s economic development, positioning them as a cornerstone of sustainable growth in the continent’s business landscape.
