Sector: Transportation

In portfolio since: 2014

Location: Kenya

Waterbus has developed a catamaran type ferry that is a uniquely cost competitive, safe and also a faster solution for its target market while it is able to keep the ticket prices competitive. It does not require jetties or permanent landing infrastructure since it can land directly on the beaches. People from the island communities are currently forced to rely on unsafe traditional wooden canoes as their only source of transport.

This initiative has significant societal impact, as it provides an affordable service that is a safe and faster alternative to the current modes of transport on the target routes, reduces isolation and leads to increased economic development on the islands. The majority of customers are the island residents, who are rural low-income people who usually generate their income as subsistence farmers, artisanal fishermen and small traders.