Absa Bank Kenya Head of SME Erastus Muthura, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Murang’a Chapter Chairperson Dr. Naomi Kagone and Absa Bank Kenya Murang’a Branch Manager Victoria Musyoka during the Bank’s Women in Business Forum held in Murang’a to engage and network with industry leaders and empower women on financial solutions to enable sustained business growth and resilience.
Absa Bank Kenya has successfully concluded a series of empowerment forums aimed at supporting 1,000 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the Mt. Kenya and North Eastern regions. The initiative, part of the bank’s broader strategy to enhance business resilience, offered entrepreneurs invaluable opportunities to network with industry leaders and gain insights into sustainable financial solutions.
The forums, held across Isiolo, Meru, Garissa, Thika, Nyeri, and Murang’a, were organized under the bank’s Wezesha Caravan initiative. This program has been pivotal in equipping SMEs with critical tools, including access to information, sustainable finance, markets, and mentorship. The mentorship sessions focused on key economic activities in these regions, such as agriculture and trade, sectors that are vital to the local economy.
Speaking at the forum in Murang’a, Erastus Muthura, Head of SME at Absa Bank Kenya, reiterated the bank’s dedication to supporting SMEs. “At Absa Bank Kenya, we believe in the power of SMEs and their significant role in driving economic growth. Our tailored solutions are designed to provide both financial and non-financial skills, ensuring sustained business growth. Through the Wezesha Caravan tour, we have created a platform for SMEs to network and engage with business leaders across the country,” he said.
Dr. Naomi Kagone, Chairperson of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Murang’a Chapter, commended Absa Bank Kenya for its commitment to grassroots financial empowerment. “The current economic environment highlights the need for resilient businesses and reliable financial partners to navigate challenges. We are honored to collaborate with Absa Bank Kenya in empowering local businesses, ensuring their growth, and fostering stronger communities,” she noted.
Absa Bank Kenya has consistently demonstrated its commitment to SME empowerment through its business club, which has facilitated similar forums in the Rift Valley, Western, and Coast regions. These initiatives aim to provide entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a dynamic and often volatile business environment.
The bank’s efforts come at a crucial time, as SMEs face increasing economic pressures. By providing access to essential resources and expertise, Absa Bank Kenya continues to play a key role in fostering business growth and resilience in Kenya.
This initiative not only underscores the bank’s role as a reliable financial partner but also highlights its contribution to the broader economic development ofthe country.
