MDIF has invested in leading digital audio media company Sowt, which is based in Jordan. Founded in 2016, Sowt produces high-quality and premium podcasts, audio books and audio articles focusing on Arabic-speaking audiences.
The investment is MDIF’s first in the MENA region and has enabled Sowt to acquire Finyal Media, a Dubai-based, award-winning podcast production company, an acquisition that marks a substantial step forward for Sowt’s content, audience and commercial opportunities.
“Sowt is a clear leader in the Arabic-language podcast space, producing original, high-quality content, and we are a long-term admirer of their work,” said Bilal Randeree, MDIF Program Director for Africa and MENA.
“Sowt has assembled a young and talented team, bringing together backgrounds and skills that allow them to continuously innovate and experiment in this sector, and we are looking forward to working with the company as it continues to expand its work.”
Sowt Originals including – Eib, Domtak, Manbet, Matryoshka and Almostajad – have been featured in international media, and have topped podcast apps charts like Apple Podcasts, Anghami and Deezer. Through Sowt Studios, the company produces digital audio for partners that have also reached top rankings.