This archive report was first published on 6 November 2019.
On November 6, 2019, Enda, the first high-performance running footwear brand made in Africa, announced that it had raised a seed funding round to support its production, distribution, and marketing efforts and become a global leader in the sportswear industry.
The funding round was led by Umoja Rubber Products and Mizizi Capital, both Kenyan companies.
Founded with a mission to bring Kenyan athletic excellence to runners everywhere, Enda aims to convert that global reputation and excellence into an institution.
“After years working with Kenyan athletes to design game-changing running shoes, we’re thrilled to now give more runners around the world a chance to run in them,” said Enda CEO Navalayo Osembo.
Enda’s first model, the Iten, is a lightweight trainer that has been sold to runners in more than 40 countries and received rave reviews. The Iten was rated one of ‘The Best Running Shoes in the World’ by Gear Patrol in 2017.
The second model, the Lapatet, was launched via a crowdfunding campaign in 2019 and will be available in early 2020. The Lapatet is a daily trainer designed to take you through most of your weekly mileage with comfort and style.
Umoja’s Chief Business Officer, Jinal Shah, said, “We are excited to be making this investment in what we believe to be the most innovative and ambitious Kenyan start-up. We have been impressed with the Enda team’s vision and commitment to excellence from the day we met them.”
Marvin Kiragu, Managing Partner of Mizizi Capital, added, “We are thrilled to partner with Enda to continue building a world-class footwear and athleisure brand based in Kenya.”
