Uber Could Back African Startup with Up to R1.93 Billion
In a move that could significantly bolster the African tech ecosystem, Uber Technologies Inc. is reportedly in discussions to invest a substantial amount in a vehicle-financing startup based in Africa, named Moove. The investment could be as much as $100 million (approximately R1.93 billion), according to sources close to the matter.
The collaboration would see the US-based ride-hailing giant joining a consortium of investors in a funding round that promises to elevate Moove’s enterprise value. The startup, which is poised for its next growth phase, might see its value surge to about $750 million, up from a pre-money valuation of around $650 million. However, it’s important to note that the funding negotiations are ongoing, and the investment amount is subject to adjustments between approximately $75 million to $100 million.
Moove’s potential partnership with Uber and other investors comes on the heels of a successful $76 million capital infusion in August of the previous year. That round, which included contributions from BlackRock Inc. and Mubadala Investment Co., propelled Moove’s valuation to roughly $550 million. This development underscores the burgeoning interest from global investors in African startups, particularly those offering innovative fintech solutions.
The African continent, renowned for its rapidly expanding population and increasing tech-savvy demographic, presents a fertile ground for technological innovation. This is especially true in sectors like banking, ride-hailing, and entertainment, where there is a keen drive to bridge gaps in traditional infrastructure. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has emerged as a hotbed for fintech innovation, giving rise to several high-profile startups. Among them, Moove has distinguished itself by focusing on providing accessible vehicle financing solutions.
Founded in Lagos in 2020 by British-born Nigerians Ladi Delano and Jide Odunsi, Moove was initiated with a mission to support aspiring drivers for ride-hailing services who faced hurdles in securing vehicle financing. The company’s innovative approach to credit scoring enables it to offer financing options to drivers, allowing them to purchase new vehicles. Drivers can then use these vehicles for a variety of services, including ride-hailing, logistics, and deliveries, repaying the loan with a portion of their weekly income.
Now with its headquarters in Amsterdam, Moove has not only solidified its presence in Africa but has also expanded its footprint to the UK, the UAE, and India. A hallmark of its operations has been a closely-knit partnership with Uber, evidencing a successful model of collaboration between startups and established global enterprises in extending impactful solutions across markets.
As discussions between Uber and Moove proceed, this potential investment signals a strong vote of confidence in the African tech ecosystem. It also highlights the critical role of fintech startups like Moove in addressing unique market challenges through innovative solutions, setting a precedent for future investments in the continent’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.
