GIF Growth has announced a strategic investment in 4G Capital, a leading fintech dedicated to providing ethical financial services to micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Kenya and Uganda. This partnership aims to expand financial access for underserved entrepreneurs, particularly those in the informal economy who are typically excluded from traditional credit due to the lack of formal financial records.
Small businesses drive over 80% of employment in East Africa, yet limited access to finance constrains growth and perpetuates cycles of poverty. Founded in 2013, 4G Capital has disbursed over $500 million to more than 450,000 clients across Kenya and Uganda, with a monthly loan volume of approximately 120,000. The company was established to bridge this credit gap and support inclusive economic development.
4G Capital differentiates itself through its hybrid “touch-tech” model, which combines digital financial tools with in-person support from local field officers. This approach ensures entrepreneurs not only receive loans but also benefit from financial literacy training, enabling them to build sustainable businesses, strengthen livelihoods, and generate local employment.
Women’s economic empowerment is central to 4G Capital’s mission. Seventy-two percent of its clients are women, and the company maintains a 51% female workforce, meeting twice the recommended criteria for women in leadership, employment, and consumption. GIF Growth has committed to supporting these initiatives, recognizing their impact on inclusive growth.
Dianah Irungu, GIF Investment Associate, highlighted that access to finance remains a major barrier for informal businesses. By scaling 4G Capital’s touch-tech model, the investment opens financial opportunities for women-led and rural enterprises while creating a replicable, inclusive model across the region.
Founder and Chairman Wayne Hennessy-Barrett emphasized that the catalytic loan from GIF Growth enables 4G Capital to provide appropriately sized working capital and enterprise training to nano, micro, and small businesses. This support is especially targeted toward women and youth-led businesses often overlooked by traditional lenders, helping entrepreneurs protect and grow livelihoods, create jobs, and strengthen local economies.
Avinash Mishra, GIF Chief Investment Officer, noted that GIF Growth is designed to accelerate the growth of high-impact businesses in Africa and Asia. By offering tailored capital and complementary technical assistance, GIF Growth aims to help companies like 4G Capital scale faster, improve financial performance, and attract additional commercial and impact investment.
The investment also positions 4G Capital for future growth. Enhanced digital offerings and strategic partnerships with public and private institutions will allow the company to reach more underserved micro-enterprises, deepen its market presence, and improve service delivery. This partnership represents a key step in scaling financial inclusion for informal businesses and unlocking further equity and debt participation in the region.
