Mirova, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers focused on sustainable investing, has announced a USD 19 million investment in Cold Solutions Kiambu (SEZ) Limited, a leading provider of temperature-controlled warehouse and logistics services in Kenya. The funding will support the expansion of energy-efficient refrigeration systems and strengthen efforts to reduce food loss and waste, contributing to improved food security in the region. The investment comes through the Mirova Gigaton Fund and will help Cold Solutions Kiambu scale up its operations in line with sustainable practices in cold chain logistics.
Cold Solutions Kiambu plays a significant role in Kenya’s logistics sector by providing advanced refrigeration systems that serve both agricultural and pharmaceutical industries. The company’s facility in Tatu City operates with a rooftop solar system that supplies around 30% of the energy needed, while using ammonia-based refrigerants that do not contribute to global warming. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also sets a global benchmark for energy-efficient warehousing. By minimizing post-harvest losses, Cold Solutions Kiambu helps protect farmers’ incomes and ensures the integrity of pharmaceutical products, supporting regional economic growth.
The facility has a storage capacity of approximately 15,000 pallet positions, allowing Cold Solutions Kiambu to handle large volumes of perishable goods effectively. This infrastructure is crucial for reducing spoilage and maintaining quality, which directly benefits clients and strengthens food systems in East Africa. By integrating renewable energy solutions and climate-friendly technologies, the project demonstrates how sustainable logistics can be both operationally efficient and environmentally responsible.
The investment aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It highlights Mirova’s commitment to supporting impactful projects in emerging markets that combine economic benefits with environmental and social outcomes. John Kimotho, Investment Director at Mirova Kenya, emphasized that the financing will accelerate climate-aligned infrastructure projects essential for food security and health systems across East Africa.
Suki Muia, Investment Director at ARCH Emerging Markets Partners Limited, noted that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to reducing food loss, strengthening food systems, and maintaining vaccine efficacy across the region in an energy-efficient and sustainable manner. This collaboration illustrates how investments in clean-powered and climate-resilient cold chain infrastructure can provide long-term benefits for both communities and the environment, while positioning Kenya as a leader in sustainable agri-logistics.
Overall, the investment in Cold Solutions Kiambu represents a strategic step in promoting sustainable development, improving food security, and enhancing operational efficiency in Kenya’s cold chain sector, setting an example for similar initiatives across Africa.
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