News
Sanivation raises $3.3 million from InfraCo to expand Naivasha waste-to-fuel plant
Kenya's Sanivation has raised $3.3 million in equity from InfraCo, plus a $500,000 grant, to expand a plant that turns faecal sludge into industrial fuel briquettes.
By Propel Africa · 2026-01-16
Sanivation has raised $3.3 million in equity from InfraCo Africa, the project development arm of PIDG, TechMoran reported on 16 January. PIDG also provided an additional $500,000 grant through its technical assistance facility.
What Sanivation does
The company treats faecal sludge and blends it with sawmill and agricultural waste to make solid fuel briquettes for industrial customers. It says the briquettes can cut industrial energy costs by 10% to 30%. They also burn longer and more efficiently than firewood. In 2018 it partnered with the Nakuru County government to set up a pilot facility.
Where the money goes
The funds will expand the Naivasha Treatment Plant in Kenya to raise briquette production capacity. The expansion aims to ease pressure on existing wastewater infrastructure and reduce pollution around Lake Naivasha. Expanded operations are expected to begin in 2027, and the larger plant is expected to treat waste equivalent to that of 100,000 to 130,000 households. Emily Woods, CEO and co-founder, said the investment "marks a turning point, not just for Sanivation".
At a glance
- Company: Sanivation
- Raised: $3.3 million
- Round or type: Equity, plus $500,000 grant
- Investor: InfraCo Africa (PIDG)
- CEO and co-founder: Emily Woods
- Pilot facility: 2018, with Nakuru County government
- Market: Kenya
- Key number: 10% to 30% lower industrial energy costs