Kenyan re-commerce startup Badili has secured US$400,000 in debt funding from Proparco, the French development finance institution, to support its mission of expanding access to affordable refurbished smartphones across Africa.
Founded in 2021, Badili is already operational in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, where it aggregates, repairs, and reintroduces used and damaged mobile phones into the market. Through its partnerships with major e-commerce platforms, local trade partners, and mobile network operators (MNOs), the company is making high-quality smartphones more accessible to consumers at significantly lower costs.
Advancing Digital Inclusion and Sustainability
Badili’s business model is designed to tackle the growing issue of electronic waste while bridging the digital divide in emerging markets. By locally refurbishing smartphones, the company not only reduces the environmental footprint associated with discarded electronics but also ensures that consumers can access premium smartphone brands at a fraction of the cost of new models, without compromising on quality.
The newly secured US$400,000 debt facility comes via Proparco’s Bridge by Digital Africa facility, which is dedicated to supporting African startups that drive digital transformation and financial inclusion. This funding will help Badili scale its operations, improve smartphone accessibility, enhance connectivity, and further promote sustainability in the region.
A Strategic Investment for Growth
Furthermore, the investment comes at a pivotal moment for Badili as it moves towards profitability and expansion into new African markets. The funding will enable the startup to strengthen its supply chain, optimize refurbishment processes, and enhance customer reach, ultimately positioning it as a leader in the circular economy for mobile devices.
Rishabh Lawania, founder and CEO at Badili, expressed his excitement about the partnership with Proparco, emphasizing the validation it brings to their mission:
“Getting validation and trust from Proparco is a great boost to the morale of the team that is building a sustainable company that enables Africans to own smartphones for a fraction of the cost of a new one. As we enter into the phase of profitability and expansion into other regions across Africa, it’s a great pleasure to welcome one of the most progressive and supportive DFIs in the world as a part of Badili’s billion-dollar journey.”
The Future of Affordable Smartphone Access in Africa
As smartphone penetration continues to grow across Africa, affordability remains a major challenge for many consumers. With this investment, Badili is poised to expand its market presence, empower more consumers with budget-friendly smartphone options, and contribute to a more sustainable tech ecosystem.
Finally, with Proparco’s backing, Badili is not just selling smartphones—it is redefining the accessibility and affordability of digital devices in Africa, ensuring that millions can stay connected in an increasingly digital world.
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