Watu

Watu is an asset financing company focused on expanding financial and digital inclusion across Africa. Established in 2015, it provides secured lending that helps underserved entrepreneurs access productive assets such as smartphones, motorcycles, and tuk-tuks. The company positions itself as a growth enabler for small business owners and informal-sector operators, especially those using two- and three-wheeled vehicles for commercial transport. By linking financing to income-generating assets, Watu aims to help customers grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods. Key Offerings Secured asset financing : Lending solutions backed by productive assets, designed to make financing more accessible to entrepreneurs who may be underserved by traditional credit. Motorcycle financing : Financing for two-wheeled vehicles, especially motorcycles used in commercial transport and by boda-boda operators. Tuk-tuk financing : Asset financing for three-wheeled vehicles used for transport and income generation. Smartphone financing : Financing that helps customers acquire smartphones, supporting both digital access and business use. Core Values Financial inclusion : The company focuses on making credit more accessible to entrepreneurs who are often excluded from mainstream finance. Digital inclusion : Smartphone financing reflects a broader aim of helping customers participate more fully in the digital economy. Entrepreneurship support : Watu frames its services around enabling small business growth and improving livelihoods through productive assets. Practical impact : Its model emphasizes assets that can directly support income generation rather than purely consumer purchases. Unique Aspects Africa-wide footprint : According to its 2024 Sustainability Report, Watu operates in seven countries: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Focus on underserved borrowers : The company specifically targets entrepreneurs who may have limited access to conventional financing, using secured lending to bridge that gap. Commercial transport specialization : A notable part of its business is financing motorcycles and tuk-tuks used for commercial transport, including boda-boda operators. Mission-led growth : Watu describes its mission as driving financial and digital inclusion across Africa, tying its lending model to broader social and economic outcomes.