Absa Bank Kenya has accelerated its national expansion drive with the launch of two Kenya-first service innovations, the Branch on the Move and Service Pods, aimed at bringing banking services closer to customers while responding to the growing demand for personalised, human-centred financial solutions.
The rollout of the new service models, alongside six new branches opened this year, has expanded Absa’s physical network to 91 branches and service centres nationwide, underscoring the bank’s commitment to accessibility, convenience and advisory-led banking.
The innovations form part of Absa’s “Tupo Ulipo” (We Are Where You Are) campaign, which seeks to position banking services within easy reach of customers by expanding into key regions and high-traffic malls.
In 2025, the bank opened and refreshed branches in Gilgil, Kawangware, Kisumu, Mtwapa and Wajir, with the Wajir outlet introducing Shariah-compliant services to deepen financial inclusion in the region.
At the centre of the expansion is the Branch on the Move, a cashless, solar-powered mobile banking truck designed to deliver everyday banking services beyond traditional branch hours.
The mobile unit offers instant debit card issuance, digital onboarding during account opening, and real-time activation of banking services at customers’ locations, enhancing flexibility and outreach.
Complementing this is the Absa Service Pod, a lounge-style, modular banking unit located in malls and designed to offer fast, personalised services within extended mall operating hours. The service pods provide customers with modern banking convenience while maintaining face-to-face engagement.
Speaking during the unveiling, Absa Bank Kenya’s Consumer Banking Director, Moses Muthui, said the innovations were a direct response to changing customer needs.
“With each innovation, we are responding to our consumers’ needs on access to financial services, enhancing inclusion for all. Our growth in distribution channels this year is a stamp of our commitment to bring modern banking closer to communities across Kenya,” said Muthui.
Beyond convenience, the new service formats also support Absa’s sustainability and inclusion agenda. The solar-powered Branch on the Move reduces the bank’s carbon footprint while ensuring service continuity across regions.
Both the mobile trucks and service pods are designed to support persons with disabilities, the elderly, customers with low digital literacy and professionals seeking flexible banking options.
Muthui noted that the bank’s strategy recognises the continued importance of physical touchpoints alongside digital channels, highlighting their role in building trust, offering advisory services and strengthening customer relationships.
To support this hybrid model, Absa has expanded its agency banking network to over 8,000 agents nationwide, ensuring broader service coverage during peak periods.
Looking ahead, Absa plans to roll out seven additional mobile banking trucks across the regions where it operates and install more service pods in high-traffic malls countrywide.
Currently present in 38 counties, Absa Bank Kenya continues to build on its legacy of market-first innovations, including introducing Kenya’s first ATM, Shariah-compliant banking and unsecured consumer lending.
The latest expansion cements Absa’s position as a forward-looking financial institution focused on inclusive growth, sustainability and customer-centric banking solutions across Kenya.