Stanbic Bank Kenya has been recognised as the ‘Best Pan-African Bank for SMEs’ at the prestigious EMEA Finance African Banking Awards 2024. The award highlights the bank’s unwavering commitment to empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across Kenya and the continent through financial support, digital transformation, and business advisory services.
The recognition underscores Stanbic Bank Kenya’s extensive efforts in supporting SME growth beyond traditional banking solutions. In the financial year ending December 2024, the bank allocated 9% of its loan book to the agricultural sector and disbursed KES 76 billion in trade loans to help businesses expand.
Additionally, the bank’s Stanbic Foundation-USADF grant programme facilitated the creation of over 400 jobs and provided financial fitness training to more than 8,000 individuals. It also extended KES 63 million in concessionary funding to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Since its inception, the D.A.D.A programme has issued KES 37.8 billion in loans to women entrepreneurs, further promoting gender-inclusive economic participation.
Empowering SMEs for Economic Growth
Ms Florence Wanja, Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic Bank Kenya, emphasised the bank’s commitment to SME development, stating:
“We understand that SMEs are the backbone of Kenya’s economy, and our goal is to ensure they have the resources, expertise, and financial solutions they need to thrive. By investing in SME-focused solutions, we are not only enabling businesses to scale but also creating employment opportunities and driving economic progress.”
In 2024, the bank launched the ‘Unlock New Horizons’ campaign, designed to expand SME opportunities through increased access to financing, advisory services, and digital banking tools. This initiative continues in 2025, reinforcing Stanbic Bank Kenya’s commitment to sectors that drive economic growth.
Leveraging Technology for Business Success
Stanbic Bank Kenya continues to invest in digital transformation to enhance SME banking experiences. Its innovative financial solutions enable businesses to operate efficiently, manage cash flow effectively, and access real-time banking services.
“We recognise that technology is a powerful enabler for SMEs, allowing them to operate more efficiently, manage cash flow effectively, and access financial solutions in real time. Our digital banking solutions are designed to ensure that businesses, regardless of their size, can compete in today’s fast-evolving marketplace,” said Ms Wanja.
The bank’s investment in digital solutions has strengthened customer acquisition, expanded its loan book, and supported business growth through cutting-edge platforms.
A Leader in Transregional Trade
The regional award as the ‘Best Pan-African Bank for SMEs’ reinforces Stanbic Bank Kenya’s market leadership and expertise in cross-border trade and Africa-China partnerships. Beyond financing, the bank provides SMEs with critical advisory services and networking opportunities. Through initiatives such as the Africa Trade Barometer, it equips businesses with valuable insights into market trends, enabling them to make informed decisions.
Moreover, Stanbic Bank Kenya actively sponsors SME-focused events such as the Changamka Shopping Festival, further demonstrating its commitment to capacity building and market access.
The EMEA Finance African Banking Awards celebrate financial institutions that demonstrate excellence, resilience, and innovation in digital services while contributing to economic development. As part of the Standard Bank Group—the largest African bank by assets operating in 20 countries—Stanbic Bank Kenya remains dedicated to expanding financial inclusion and empowering SMEs to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.
