The ranking highlights Inkomoko’s growth across the continent and the power of investing in
underserved micro and small businesses
Inkomoko has been named the 5th-fastest-growing company in Africa, up from 8th last year,
according to the Financial Times. This marks Inkomoko’s second consecutive
appearance on the FT ranking, underscoring its growth and the effectiveness of its model in supporting micro and small businesses including those in displacement-affected markets.
For Inkomoko’s work in Rwanda, this recognition underscores that micro and small
businesses create jobs, strengthen economies, and demonstrate that inclusive investment drives growth in often-overlooked markets.
Since launching in 2012, Inkomoko has partnered with more than 60,000 entrepreneurs across 14 locations, providing affordable capital, business support, and market access. These entrepreneurs include forcibly displaced people and local business owners especially women and youth who build enterprises that serve their communities and strengthen economic resilience.
“This recognition is a proud moment for Inkomoko, but more importantly, it reflects the ambition and resilience of the entrepreneurs we partner with in Rwanda,” said Emmanuel Mugabo, Inkomoko’s Rwanda Managing Director. “When micro and small businesses have the right capital, skills, and access to markets, they grow businesses, create jobs, and strengthen markets. This ranking shows what is possible when we invest in opportunities where others may not see them.”
Founded in 2012, Inkomoko has grown to a regional organization supporting entrepreneurs in Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Chad. To date, Inkomoko has invested over $37.5 million, supported more than 120,000 entrepreneurs, and positively impacted 1.2 million people across East and Central Africa.
The Financial Times ranking recognizes Africa’s fastest-growing private companies by compound annual growth rate from 2021 to 2024. Inkomoko’s rise in the ranking underscores the private sector’s role in advancing economic inclusion, particularly in communities affected by displacement and limited access to finance and markets.
As displacement continues to affect millions across the continent, Inkomoko’s work shows that
economic inclusion is not charity. It is a practical investment inentrepreneurs who drive local economies, serve customers, create employment, and build
stability.
Looking ahead, Inkomoko plans to invest $150 million by 2030, supporting 550,000 entrepreneurs in displacement-affected and host communities across Africa. The organization will focus on expanding to new regions, strengthening existing operations, and measuring long-term business growth and job creation as core indicators of its impact.
“Our growth is linked to our clients’ success,” added Emmanuel. “This recognition reinforces our commitment to working with partners, investors, policymakers, and communities so that micro and small businesses including those in displacementaffected markets have what they need to thrive.”
Gabriel UZABAKIRIHO / KIGALI TIMES