
IFC Invests $10.5 Million in 4DX Ventures to Boost African Tech Startups
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has announced a $10.5 million investment in 4DX Ventures, a venture capital firm supporting early-stage tech companies in Africa.
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Inspired Evolution, through its Evolution III Fund, has invested $20 million in Cold Solutions East Africa Holdings (CSEAHL), a company that builds and operates temperature-controlled warehouses and logistics facilities across East Africa.
CSEAHL is owned by the ARCH Cold Chain Solutions East Africa Fund, managed by ARCH Emerging Markets Partners.
The fund’s main shareholder is African Rainbow Capital, through its subsidiary ARC Guernsey.
According to Anthony Ngugi, Investment Director at Inspired Evolution, the deal supports the company’s focus on resource efficiency and directly helps improve food security by expanding reliable cold-chain infrastructure in the region.
Wayne Keast, Managing Partner at Inspired Evolution, said the investment fits their mission to support climate-resilient and energy-efficient projects.
He noted that Cold Solutions East Africa helps reduce food waste and strengthens supply chains facing climate challenges.
From ARCH’s side, Suki Muia, Investment Director, said Inspired Evolution’s $20 million commitment will help fund four additional cold-storage sites in Kampala, Kigali, Dar es Salaam, and Mombasa.
These will add to the flagship facility at Tatu City in Kenya, which is already in operation.
Marlene Jennings, CEO of ARCH, said the partnership highlights the growing importance of channeling sustainable investment into Africa’s food systems.
She added that Cold Solutions East Africa is helping to cut post-harvest losses while providing farmers, businesses, and consumers with dependable cold storage.
The expansion of Cold Solutions East Africa is part of a wider plan to build a network of modern, energy-efficient cold-storage facilities across East Africa.
The initiative aims to reduce food spoilage, improve market access for farmers, and boost regional trade.

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has announced a $10.5 million investment in 4DX Ventures, a venture capital firm supporting early-stage tech companies in Africa.

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