Eric Jackson, co-founder of Kenyan fintech startup Hisa, has stepped down from his role as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) less than two months after the company was acquired by Nigerian investment platform Risevest. Jackson’s departure marks a new chapter for both Hisa and the fintech innovator, who plans to channel his efforts into the development of the Mashuuru Sports Complex, a project aimed at advancing sports infrastructure in East Africa.
Hisa, which Jackson co-founded in 2020 with Eric Asuma, quickly rose to prominence in Kenya’s fintech scene by democratizing access to local and international stock markets. Under Jackson’s leadership, the platform secured key regulatory approvals from the Capital Markets Authority of Kenya (CMA) and the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), growing its user base and forging strategic partnerships.
The September 2024 acquisition of Hisa by Risevest allowed the Nigerian fintech giant to expand into Kenya, with Jackson initially appointed CTO and Asuma taking on a strategic advisory role. Despite these arrangements, Jackson’s sudden exit raises questions about the integration process and the alignment of visions post-merger.
Jackson’s pivot to sports infrastructure signals a shift in focus to fostering athletic development in East Africa. Through the Mashuuru Sports Complex, he aims to create lasting opportunities for athletes while driving regional growth through enhanced facilities and programs.
As Hisa continues under Risevest’s leadership, Jackson’s departure underscores the complexities of mergers and acquisitions while highlighting his enduring commitment to innovation and development in Africa.
