Nairobi-based Atlantis Life Science, a key player in Kenya's veterinary pharmaceutical sector, is set to expand its operations into Uganda and Tanzania. This strategic move is poised to significantly impact the region's agricultural landscape, bolstering food security and strengthening supply chains for farmers.

The expansion underscores the vital role of targeted financial support in transforming local startups into regional powerhouses. For Kenyan farmers and households, the growth of a homegrown enterprise like Atlantis signals a maturing industry, potentially leading to better access to crucial animal health products, from cattle genetics to pest control solutions.

From Humble Beginnings to a Regional Contender

Atlantis Life Science's journey began in March 2017 with a small office, a single employee, and one motorbike. Chief Operations Officer, Ms. Lena Nyaga, recalled the company's modest start, stating, “When we started back in March 2017, we didn't have a vehicle. We operated from a small office that could only accommodate one employee.” A pivotal moment came when Co-operative Bank of Kenya financed their first vehicle, a critical asset for a distribution-based company.

This initial support has blossomed into a comprehensive financial partnership. Co-operative Bank now provides Atlantis with essential trade financing, including letters of credit for international imports, working capital, and import duty financing. This relationship is further fortified by the African Guarantee Fund (AGF), which provides a credit line that doubles the company's borrowing capacity from the bank.

Fueling Growth and Impact

The impact of this financial backing is evident in Atlantis's dramatic growth. The company now operates from two 6,700-square-foot facilities and manages a fleet of 25 vehicles and 11 motorbikes. Its import volumes have surged from an initial 800 litres across four products to an average of 100,000 litres per product today.

• **Company Inception:** March 2017
• **Initial Operations:** Small office, one motorbike
• **Key Financier:** Co-operative Bank of Kenya
• **Supporting Partner:** African Guarantee Fund (AGF)
• **Expansion Targets:** Uganda and Tanzania
• **Core Business:** Animal health, nutrition, pest control, and cattle genetics

Analysts note that the success of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) like Atlantis is crucial for Kenya's economic future, fostering job creation and strengthening key sectors. Co-operative Bank's commitment to SME financing is underscored by a recent $140 million (approx. KES 18.1 billion) facility from the IFC, aimed at bolstering its lending to small businesses.

A Vision for the Future

While a specific timeline for the expansion into Uganda and Tanzania has not been disclosed, Atlantis Life Science has a clear long-term goal: to become the market leader in Kenya and the broader region within the next 10 to 15 years. This ambition aligns with the significant growth projected for the East African healthcare and agricultural sectors.

Ms. Nyaga emphasized the importance of their financial partner in achieving this vision, stating, “The Atlantis journey...has been possible because Co-op Bank came on board.” Highlighting their strategic approach to growth, she also noted, “I know most people fear debt, but debt is an easy way to create wealth.”