Startup offers loans to distribution centres

What you need to know:

  • Ramani’s chief executive officer, Mr Iain Usiri, says he hopes to increase efficiency in providing the loans.

Dar es Salaam.  Financial technology start-up Ramani has disbursed over $100 million (Sh250.5 billion) in loans to micro-distribution centres in the last two and a half years, the company said.

Ramani’s chief executive officer, Mr Iain Usiri, said he hopes to increase efficiency in providing the loans.

“What we have done is build software that micro-distribution centres can use to manage their operations. This means a distributor can keep track of where their salespeople are going, who they are selling to, how much they are selling, how much inventory they still have in their warehouse, and much more. The app then helps you track all that data in real-time,” he said.

He said the tremendous growth is a testament to the demand in the market for both technological solutions and flexible financing.

“The impact of Ramani extends beyond the confines of the fast-moving consumer sector. It offers a blueprint for how thoughtful technology integration and inventive financing can dismantle traditional barriers to growth and unlock potential across various industries,” he said.

“In a world where technology is increasingly becoming the great equaliser, Ramani stands out. Our success serves as an inspiring example of how technological innovation can drive economic growth and empower local businesses in emerging markets,” he said.

Founded with the aim of automating and digitising the fragmented operations of the consumer goods sector, Ramani provides resellers with proprietary financial technology software to streamline their operations.

Their integrated platform covers every aspect of the business, from procurement to warehousing and point-of-sale (POS) services, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow.