Clean Water, Bright Future

Building a Healthier Somalia

In 2000, Somalia was in a state of recovery, and access to clean, safe drinking water was a pressing challenge. It was in response to this critical need that Afi Water Factory was established. From humble beginnings, Afi has grown into a trusted provider of purified water, serving both Somali citizens and foreign residents. The company’s journey is a testament to the resilience of Somali entrepreneurs and the transformative power of strategic investment.

From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leader

Afi started by producing water in large plastic bottles, but as demand evolved, the company adapted, introducing smaller bottles to better serve consumers. The need for expansion became clear as operations grew, and it was at this crucial juncture that Afi Water Factory partnered with Shuraako for financial support. This collaboration marked a turning point in the company’s trajectory.

With an investment of $413,547.5 under the NHAOF Investment, Afi was able to acquire an automatic blow molding machine with a preform auto feeder, as well as essential raw materials, including 5.65 million preforms and caps. This significant investment enabled the company to scale up production, enhance efficiency, and improve product quality.

Accelerated Growth and Job Creation

The impact of this investment has been profound. Before receiving financing from Shuraako, Afi operated with a single-line production system, limiting its capacity. The new equipment allowed the company to expand its production, resulting in a significant increase in output and revenue.

One of the most notable achievements following the investment has been job creation. Afi Water Factory has expanded its workforce by a remarkable percentage, employing over 100 individuals. This includes both permanent and temporary jobs, providing stable income opportunities for many young Somalis. By investing in local talent, Afi has not only improved livelihoods but also contributed to economic stability in the communities it serves.

Commitment to Quality and Innovation

Beyond expansion, Afi has prioritized quality assurance and innovation. The company now operates a state-of-the-art laboratory equipped with modern testing tools to ensure the highest water purity standards. Previously, Afi relied on sending water samples to Saudi Arabia for quality testing every three months, a costly and time-consuming process. Today, thanks to in-house testing capabilities, Afi has established its own benchmark—known as the Afi Standard—ensuring that every bottle meets stringent safety and health requirements.

Expanding Market Reach

Afi’s growth has extended beyond Mogadishu. The company now operates in three of Somalia’s largest cities: Mogadishu, Kismayo, and Baidoa, serving households, institutions, and businesses. With 23 boreholes strategically located across these regions, Afi is not only expanding its market reach but also ensuring that more communities have access to clean drinking water. Additionally, the company’s sustainability efforts are commendable, with 65% of its operations powered by solar energy, reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining efficiency.

Partnership Beyond Financing

One of the key advantages of working with Shuraako has been more than just financial support. Unlike traditional banks, Shuraako provided Afi with tailored training programs to ensure the smooth integration of new machinery. Highly qualified experts were brought in to train employees, equipping them with the necessary skills to optimize production processes. This hands-on approach to capacity building has strengthened Afi’s operations, making it a model for other businesses in the sector.

The story of Afi Water Factory is a powerful example of how access to the right financing can unlock economic growth, create jobs, and foster innovation. Through its partnership with Shuraako, Afi has not only transformed its operations but also made a lasting impact on the Somali economy and the lives of many individuals.

As Afi continues to grow, its mission remains clear: to ensure that every Somali household has access to clean, safe drinking water—one bottle at a time.