Nairobi’s fast-growing Runda suburb is set to host ADvTECH’s newest Makini campus following a KSh1.23 billion school acquisition.
This acquisition marks a significant milestone in ADvTECH’s ambitious African expansion strategy, strengthening its footprint in Kenya’s thriving private education sector.
But what does this mean for students, parents, and the future of education in the region?
The Acquisition: Key Details
ADvTECH, through its Makini Schools network, has taken over Regis Runda Academy, a prestigious institution located in Nairobi’s fast-developing Ridgeways area.
Opened in 2024, the academy currently serves up to 2,000 students and is set to be rebranded as Makini School Runda by August 20, 2025.
The R172 million deal reflects ADvTECH’s commitment to scaling its operations in Kenya, a hub for high-end private education in East Africa.
Why Regis Runda Academy?
Regis Runda Academy is a strategic addition to ADvTECH’s portfolio. Situated in an affluent Nairobi suburb, the academy caters to high-income families, aligning with ADvTECH’s focus on the mid-to-high-fee education segment.
Its modern facilities and capacity for 2,000 students make it a valuable asset for expanding the Makini Schools brand, known for academic excellence since its acquisition by ADvTECH in 2018.
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ADvTECH’s African Expansion Strategy: A Broader Vision
ADvTECH’s acquisition of Regis Runda Academy is part of a broader strategy to dominate the private education market across Africa.
Since entering Kenya in 2018 through the acquisition of Makini Schools, the group has aggressively expanded its presence:
- 2018: Acquired a 71% stake in Makini Schools, later increasing to 94% by 2021, adding nine schools and 4,100 students to its portfolio.
- November 2024: Acquired Flipper International School in Ethiopia, further diversifying its East African presence.
- June 2025: Launched Rosebank International University College in Ghana, signalling its intent to expand into West Africa.
This latest acquisition reinforces ADvTECH’s reputation as a key player in African education, combining investment scale, brand strength, and local expertise to elevate learning standards across the continent.
Why Kenya?
Kenya’s private education sector is growing rapidly, driven by demand from high-income families seeking quality education.
The country’s strategic location and growing middle class make it an attractive market for education providers.
ADvTECH’s focus on Kenya aligns with the rapid consolidation in the region’s high-end education sector, where institutions like Regis Runda Academy offer stability and growth potential.
What’s Next for Makini School Runda?
ADvTECH has ambitious plans to enhance the student experience at Regis Runda Academy, soon to be Makini School Runda. The group intends to:
- Integrate AI-powered digital learning tools: These tools will personalise education and improve academic outcomes, aligning with global trends in EdTech.
- Upgrade sports facilities: Investments in infrastructure will elevate the student experience, making the school a more attractive option for parents.
- Leverage the Makini brand: Rebranding as Makini School Runda will tap into the network’s reputation for academic excellence, drawing more students from Nairobi’s elite.
The Bigger Picture: Impact on Stakeholders
For Students and Parents
The acquisition brings the promise of enhanced resources and facilities under the Makini Schools umbrella.
Students can expect a curriculum enriched with digital tools and improved extracurricular opportunities, while parents gain access to a trusted brand known for academic rigour.
For the Burugu Family
The sale of Regis Runda Academy netted the Burugu couple, Peter and Mary Burugu, KSh1.23 billion. The couple noted that education was not their core business, and the sale allows them to focus on other ventures while ensuring the school’s long-term growth under ADvTECH’s stewardship.
For ADvTECH
This acquisition strengthens ADvTECH’s market position in Kenya, where it already operates eight schools across four campuses through Makini Schools.
By integrating Regis Runda Academy, ADvTECH gains greater reach among Nairobi’s affluent families, boosting its revenue potential and brand visibility.
Why This Matters for African Education
ADvTECH’s aggressive expansion reflects a growing trend of consolidation in Africa’s private education sector.
By acquiring high-performing schools like Regis Runda Academy, ADvTECH is not only scaling its operations but also setting a benchmark for quality education.
The group’s investments in AI and infrastructure signal a forward-thinking approach that could inspire other providers to innovate.
Moreover, ADvTECH’s focus on mid-to-high-fee schools addresses the rising demand for premium education in Africa’s growing economies.
As urbanisation and disposable incomes rise, private education providers like ADvTECH are well-positioned to meet this demand, potentially transforming educational standards across the continent.
For those interested in learning more about ADvTECH’s initiatives or exploring enrolment opportunities at Makini School Runda, visit ADvTECH’s official website for updates.
Ronnie Paul is a seasoned writer and analyst with a prolific portfolio of over 1,000 published articles, specialising in fintech, cryptocurrency, climate change, and digital finance at Africa Digest News.
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