Labat Africa Mondau AI investment

South African technology investment group Labat Africa has agreed to acquire a 20% equity stake in Mozambique-based artificial intelligence company Mondau for $1.8 million, marking a strategic expansion into Africa’s fast-growing AI and digital infrastructure sector.

The R30 million ($1.81 million) investment strengthens Labat Africa’s presence in generative artificial intelligence, GPU computing infrastructure, and AI-driven security platforms, positioning the group to capitalize on rising demand for AI-powered financial transactions and mobile payments across Africa.

Expanding into Africa’s AI infrastructure
Mondau operates in the artificial intelligence and advanced computing sector, developing technologies that include generative AI platforms, GPU infrastructure, and digital transformation solutions.

The company also builds AI-driven security systems and machine learning applications designed to improve industrial efficiency, optimize manufacturing processes, and support environmental and agricultural data analysis.

These technologies are increasingly critical as African economies accelerate adoption of AI-powered digital infrastructure.

Mondau’s ownership and financial performance
Mondau is currently owned by Hamzah Khan, who holds a 90% stake, and Danilo Chembene, who owns the remaining 10%.

For the financial year ending 2024/25, the company reported pre-tax profits of $8 million, reflecting strong growth in demand for artificial intelligence solutions across emerging markets.

The financial performance highlights Mondau’s rising position in Africa’s developing AI technology ecosystem.

Positioning for Africa’s digital finance boom
Labat Africa’s investment also gives the company strategic exposure to Africa’s rapidly expanding mobile money market, which remains the largest in the world.

Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for around 70% of global mobile money transaction value, according to industry data.

In 2024, mobile money transactions exceeded $1.1 trillion globally, creating significant opportunities for companies integrating AI-driven security and financial technologies.

Through its partnership with Mondau, Labat Africa aims to develop solutions supporting secure digital payments, fraud detection, and AI-powered transaction processing.

Transaction structure and regulatory approval
Under the agreement, Labat Africa will purchase 20% of Mondau’s issued shares for R30 million ($1.8 million).

The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and completion conditions, including the provision of audited financial statements.

Mondau currently holds an estimated net asset value of approximately R150 million ($9.06 million). Based on Labat Africa’s market capitalization, the deal qualifies as a Category 2 transaction under Johannesburg Stock Exchange listing rules, meaning shareholder approval is not required.

Strategic outlook
Labat Africa was founded in 1995 by Brian van Rooyen and Victor Labat. Brian van Rooyen, a former South African rugby boss, served as the CEO since the company’s inception. The company has operated as an investment holding company, with early involvement in government consulting and later transitioning toward technology, logistics, and, for a period, the cannabis industry.

Once finalized, the investment is expected to strengthen Labat Africa’s ambition to evolve into a fully integrated ICT and artificial intelligence solutions provider.

By expanding into AI infrastructure and digital financial technologies, the company aims to position itself at the center of Africa’s next wave of technology-driven economic growth.