Verod-Kepple Africa Ventures (VKAV), an Africa-focused venture capital firm, recently completed the final close of its inaugural fund at $60 million, preparing to invest in approximately 21 promising growth-stage companies across the continent.

The fund attracted significant international interest, securing investments from major global players such as Japan's SBI Holdings and Toyota Tsusho Corporation. New backers including Nigeria's SCM Capital and Taiyo Holdings from Japan also contributed, bolstering the fund’s resources.

Established in 2022 by partners Okolloh, Yamawaki, and Shinada, VKAV emerged from a strategic partnership between Verod Capital Management and Kepple Africa. The firm aims to bridge the funding gap for startups seeking Series A and B investments across Africa.

Ory Okolloh, a partner at VKAV, emphasized the critical need for more growth-stage funding in Africa, pointing out the vast untapped potential within the continent’s burgeoning startup ecosystem.

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VKAV's investment strategy focuses on propelling companies that are transforming Africa’s digital landscape, including sectors like fintech and healthcare.

With $17.5 million already deployed and 12 startups currently in its portfolio, VKAV has established a strong presence in markets such as Nigeria, Egypt, and Kenya. Looking ahead, the firm plans to expand its reach further into other African markets, continuing to drive innovation and growth throughout the region.