Alterra Capital Partners has announced a strategic investment in ARP Africa Travel Group (ARP Africa), partnering with the founding family to accelerate expansion across East Africa and beyond.

Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

Genevieve Sangudi, Partner at Alterra, said: “ARP Africa is an excellent business with a strong market position, high performing management team and exceptional growth prospects. We are excited to partner with the founding family, represented by Taqi and Zaheer Moledina, to support ARP’s growth, create high-quality jobs, and contribute to conservation in East Africa.”

ARP Africa, which includes Pollman’s Tours and Safaris Limited (Kenya), Ranger Safaris Limited (Tanzania), and ARP Africa Travel (United Kingdom), is a leading provider of destination management services in East Africa. 

Established in Tanzania in 1978, the company has built a reputation for exceptional service delivery and deep local expertise across key tourism markets. 

The company works with over 600 international travel agents in 50 countries across five continents, arranging over 100,000 travel experiences annually for global visitors to East Africa. 

Tourism plays a crucial role in East Africa’s economy, significantly contributing to both GDP and employment. 

The sector accounted for approximately 10% of East African GDP in 2023 and directly employs over 5 million people in Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda. 

Following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the region has recovered strongly, with tourism receipts in 2023 of c. $8 billion, marking a 30% increase from 2022 and surpassing pre-pandemic figures. This resurgence highlights the region's appeal as a tourist destination and the sector's resilience.  

ARP Africa is well-positioned to capitalize on rising demand for high-quality, experience-driven travel. 

With a predominantly East African workforce, ARP Africa is deeply committed to creating more high-quality jobs and promoting sustainable tourism in the region. 

The company’s growth strategy includes expansion into new source markets and destination markets and leveraging technology to drive efficiency and enhance customer experiences.  

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

Closing of the deal remains subject to the satisfaction of standard regulatory conditions. 

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