CDI Global Partners Africa Merchant Capital Advisory Facilitates Strategic Investment in ARP Africa Travel Group

CDI Global Partners Africa Merchant Capital Advisory served as the exclusive advisor to ARP Africa Travel Group

LONDON - March 11, 2025 - PRLog -- CDI Global Partners Africa Merchant Capital Advisory is proud to announce the successful completion of a significant transaction in which it served as the exclusive advisor to ARP Africa Travel Group. This landmark deal saw Alterra Capital Partners (Alterra) acquire a majority stake in ARP Africa Travel Ltd. (ARP), further solidifying ARP's position as a leader in East African tourism.

A Leading Destination Management Group

ARP Africa operates Pollman's Tours and Safaris Limited (Kenya), Ranger Safaris Limited (Tanzania), and ARP Africa Travel (United Kingdom). With a strong reputation for excellence, the company delivers high-quality destination management services, catering to travelers from across the globe.

Alterra's Investment Through the AAA Fund

The investment was made through the Alterra Africa Accelerator Fund (AAA Fund), which launched in 2023 with an initial close of $140 million and a target of $400 million by September 2025. The AAA Fund focuses on high-growth sectors, including technology, telecom, healthcare, logistics, consumer, and retail, with a strategic emphasis on East and Southern Africa.

ARP Africa is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for high-quality, experience-driven travel. The company's expansion plans include entry into new source and destination markets, as well as leveraging technology to enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency.

Commitment to Sustainable Growth and Employment

ARP Africa maintains a predominantly East African workforce and is dedicated to fostering job creation and sustainable tourism. Through this strategic partnership, ARP Africa aims to expand employment opportunities and contribute to conservation efforts in the region.

Expertise and Growth-Oriented Partnership

As a growth-focused investor, Alterra brings deep expertise in travel, retail, and technology across the African continent.

Taqi Moledina, CEO of ARP Africa, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership:

"We are excited to join forces with Alterra as we embark on the next phase of ARP's growth. Alterra's proven track record in scaling businesses across Africa makes them the ideal partner. We look forward to unlocking new opportunities and driving the future of African tourism together."

Tourism Sector Resurgence and Economic Impact

Tourism remains a crucial pillar of East Africa's economy, contributing approximately 10% to GDP in 2023 and directly employing over 5 million people across Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda.

Following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry has experienced a strong resurgence, with 2023 tourism receipts reaching approximately $8 billion—a 30% increase from 2022 and exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This rebound underscores the region's enduring appeal as a world-class travel destination.

Transaction Advisors

Africa Merchant Capital (AMC) served as the exclusive financial advisor to ARP Africa Travel Group and its founding family. White & Case LLP and Eversheds Sutherland acted as legal advisors to the buyer and seller, respectively. McKinsey & Company provided commercial advisory services, while EY advised on financial and tax matters.

Looking Ahead

With a strong foundation and a forward-looking strategy, ARP Africa is poised for continued growth in the travel sector. The partnership with Alterra represents a significant step in its journey toward becoming a dominant force in East African tourism, driving innovation, job creation, and economic development in the region.

About CDI

CDI Global's international reach provides distinctive advantages for multi-national clients. CDI Global has successfully partnered and collaborated with clients around the world, in vertical sectors that span virtually every major industry.  Our executive team works collaboratively to meet your strategic goals and our success is built on the long-term relationships we develop, providing broader insight and opportunities for our clients. We are committed to conducting all of our business activity with confidentiality, respect and integrity.

For more information, visit https://www.cdiglobal.com.

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