Bridging Two Worlds, Building One Future
First CoHO Inc. is a U.S.-based investment powerhouse combining institutional governance with deep African expertise to identify, fund, and scale transformative businesses across the continent.
Born from a Simple Observation
Africa has extraordinary entrepreneurial talent and massive market opportunities, but lacks access to patient, sophisticated capital. Meanwhile, U.S. institutional investors seek emerging market exposure but face barriers of distance, information asymmetry, and perceived risk.
We exist to bridge that gap.
Founded by African Diaspora investment professionals with decades of Wall Street experience and deep roots across the continent, First CoHO applies the rigorous standards of U.S. private equity to Africa's most promising startups.
"Africa will account for 40% of the world's youth population by 2030. Our mission is to ensure they have the jobs, infrastructure, and opportunities they deserve."— First CoHO Leadership Team
Vision
To be the leading U.S.-based Diaspora investment firm advancing Africa's industrial and digital growth—driving sustainable prosperity through strategic deployment of $600 million.
Mission
To invest $600 million in scalable, technology-based ventures that address regional challenges while offering strong risk-adjusted returns over ten years.
Strategy
Our "buy-and-build" approach utilizes our Nairobi hub to scale proven business models across Central and East Africa, leveraging the AfCFTA framework.
Four Pillars of Our Investment Approach
Capital Mobilization
Raise and deploy $1-2 billion through targeted allocations over the next decade, creating a robust cross-border investment platform.
Regional Leadership
Position First CoHO as the leading startup investment partner in East and Central Africa through our Nairobi hub.
Sector Dominance
Assemble a diversified portfolio featuring top-performing companies across five main sectors with 15-20 initial investments.
Sustainable Impact
Embed ESG principles into every investment, guaranteeing measurable social and economic benefits aligned with UN SDGs.
Eight Commitments That Guide Every Investment
Governance & Structure — Transparent organizational frameworks for US-Kenya operations
Localized Sourcing — Kenya-based teams accessing proprietary deal flow
Market Focus — Initial investments within Kenya and neighboring East/Central African markets
Value Creation — Operational, financial, governance, and strategic support to portfolio companies
Ecosystem Engagement — Strategic partnerships with local entrepreneurs and institutions
Operational Excellence — Comprehensive post-investment support through Portfolio Management Team
Risk Mitigation — Rigorous U.S.-standard legal, financial, and compliance measures
Exit Optimization — Clear exit strategies through M&A, secondary sales, or public listings
Africa's Investment Command Center
Geographic Position
Central access to 14 East African Community nations
Talent Hub
Africa's largest concentration of tech talent and entrepreneurial ecosystems
Business-Friendly
Ranked #56 globally in Ease of Doing Business
Connectivity
Direct flights to 60+ destinations across Africa, Middle East, Europe, and Asia
Infrastructure
98% 4G coverage and advanced digital payment infrastructure
AfCFTA Positioning
Strategic hub for cross-border trade under Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement