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TRANSCENTURY PLC
Over the last few decades, Africans have taken up the call to build the infrastructure that will connect the continent, spur trade and deliver on development for the continent. The rise of local private sector investors in addressing Africa’s infrastructure gaps, particularly in a landscape where traditional funding sources are increasingly constrained and traditional approaches inadequate, has become a cornerstone for economic growth and societal advancement.
In a continent characterised by rapid urbanisation, burgeoning populations, and expanding economies, the need for robust infrastructure has overtaken the state capacity to meet these needs. The need to address infrastructure holistically and innovatively also requires the private sector to be able to drive the non-traditional approaches. Efficient infrastructure not only requires right financing, but also a coordinated approach to construction, supply of the right products, maintenance and management.
This necessity has opened a fertile ground for investment, especially for companies that possess the vision and capacity to mobilise the vast sums of capital and synergies to drive development across critical sectors such as energy, transport, water, industrial and agriculture.
TransCentury PLC, headquartered in Kenya, exemplifies such a company, operating as an investment holding entity with a mandate to transform infrastructure across East, Central, and Southern Africa.
Since its founding, TransCentury has grown into the enduring spirit and strategic foresight of the pioneers of our nations who believed only Africans could truly address Africa’s infrastructure deficiencies sustainably. This has remained ingrained in the company’s DNA even as it grew to become a significant player in the region’s infrastructure landscape.
Today the company’s strategic focus on owning, building, supplying, managing, and maintaining infrastructure assets has built TransCentury into every phase of the infrastructure value chain. This comprehensive approach ensures that TransCentury not only addresses immediate infrastructural needs but also creates long-term value through sustainable practices.
As TransCentury grows in size and markets, it has always sought to build synergies with partners who share the company’s operational philosophy, mission and vision. The company strives to be the premier investment partner in Africa, dedicated to improving lives through investment in infrastructure products, projects, and services. This business is underpinned by a set of core values that guide its actions and decisions: entrepreneurial spirit, pioneering nature, innovative solutions, and collaborative teams.
TransCentury has now grown into a Pan African company whose impact and portfolio spans several key sectors and geographies within Africa. It has significant investments in five operating businesses: East African Cables (EAC) in Kenya and Tanzania, Tanelec in Tanzania and Zambia, and Avery East Africa (AEA).
This is not by accident, each of these entities plays a crucial role in the infrastructure ecosystem, feeding into direct market needs. EAC is a leading manufacturer of electrical cables, essential for power projects across the region. Tanelec specialises in manufacture of transformers and switchgear, crucial components for power distribution and stability. AEA offers solutions that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of infrastructure and construction of infrastructure, reinforcing TransCentury’s commitment to sustainable development.
This vision has been upheld by successive business titans who have demonstrated leadership even during the company’s most challenging times. The success and resilience of TransCentury are testaments to its strong leadership. The Group Board at TransCentury, chaired by Shaka Kariuki, includes six other directors who bring a wealth of skills and experience. Additionally, TC subsidiaries are governed by competent Boards of Directors with diverse skills and expertise, providing oversight and driving strategy.
At the helm of the Group is Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Nganga Njiinu, who joined the company in 2008 and ascended to the role of CEO in 2016. With over 22 years of experience in operations, turnarounds, strategy implementation and investments, Njiinu has been instrumental in steering TransCentury through challenging times.
Under his leadership, the company has undergone significant operational restructuring, debt reduction as well as restructuring. This financial turnaround has been complemented by attracting over USD 50 million in new funds and successfully exiting several infrastructure projects and portfolio investments.
Njiinu’s tenure is marked by a clear strategic vision focused on disciplined capital allocation, seizing commercial opportunities, innovative fundraising, and robust execution of the order book. His strategic leadership, guided by the supportive board, has stabilised TransCentury, positioning it for sustained growth.
Leading the Group Board is Chairman Shaka Kariuki who complements Njiinu’s vision with the networks and the experience of navigating the global investment and finance sector. Kariuki, who serves in various leadership roles across different sectors and regions, brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to TransCentury.
He brings a background of global finance and local knowledge to portfolio building from a stellar career in private equity. Kariuki’s leadership is instrumental in guiding TransCentury’s strategic direction, ensuring that it remains focused on its mission while navigating the complexities of the African infrastructure landscape.
TransCentury’s leadership is not only set to transform TC but large-scale financing, manufacture of quality infrastructure products, construction and maintenance of infrastructure in Africa. It shows how the private sector can continue to offer solutions to thrive and adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
TransCentury understands that its impact goes beyond its financial achievements. It plays a pivotal role in enhancing infrastructure efficiency and sustainability across Africa, fostering economic development, creating jobs and improving lives. The company takes pride in
standing as a beacon of excellence in Africa’s infrastructure sector. Its strategic investments, robust leadership, and unwavering commitment to sustainable development position it as a key player in driving Africa’s economic transformation.
The company is also keen on bestowing the legacy of its founders on the next generation, by tapping into the young innovative workforce and embracing diversity, TransCentury ensures that it remains at the forefront of innovation and inclusivity. The company’s focus on local talent and advanced tools like artificial intelligence (AI) reflects its forward-looking approach and commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing world.
As the continent continues to evolve, TransCentury’s role in shaping its infrastructure landscape will undoubtedly remain significant, fostering growth and prosperity for future generations.
