Centum

Centum Investment Company Limited is a private equity firm based in Nairobi, Kenya, specializing in middle-market investments across various sectors including consumer goods, agriculture, education, healthcare, energy, financial services, and real estate. Established in 1967, Centum engages in both direct investments and fund-of-funds strategies, focusing on companies that cater to the East African market. The firm typically invests between $2 million and $20 million, aiming for equity stakes that allow for board participation and strategic control. Centum's portfolio is diversified, with significant investments in real estate, private equity, and marketable securities. The company seeks to generate market-beating returns by building and supporting exceptional enterprises across the continent, while also maintaining multiple exit strategies for its investments.

Samuel Kariuki

Group Chief Finance Officer

Fredrick N. Murimi

MD of Centum Capital

Fred Murimi

Managing Director, Centum Capital

James Mworia

Group Chief Executive Officer

Thomas Omondi-Achola

Group COO and MD of Centum Business Solutions

2 past transactions

Deacons

Funding Round in 2017
Deacons’ principal business is to operate retail establishments including franchise and department stores selling ladies, men’s and children’s clothing, footwear, accessories, toiletries, gifts, home-furnishings, cosmetics and sporting goods amongst other items in East Africa. Deacons started its operations in 1958 as a Marks & Spencer franchisee. The business was incorporated into the Company in 1973 and traded successfully under this franchise until 1980. Due to import restrictions, this franchise was relinquished in 1980, and the Company shifted to local products by working with local industry to supply its stores.

Longhorn Publishers

Acquisition in 2016
Longhorn Publishers limited is a public limited liability company wholly-owned and run by Kenyans. It was incorporated in Kenya in May 1965 as Longmans of Kenya a wholly owned subsidiary of Longman Group International of the United Kingdom. At that time, it was mainly a sales promotion office handling Longman publications published in UK. In December 1969, the company changed name to Longman Kenya Limited. During the 1970s, a limited local publishing programme was started and, around the same time, a few Kenyans were invited to join the Board of Directors.