Abojani Investment hosts 5th economic empowerment conference, spotlighting financial literacy

Abojani Investment has held its 5th Economic Empowerment Conference, bringing together leaders from Kenya and the region to discuss sustainable wealth creation, financial empowerment, and long-term economic resilience.

This year’s event focused on the need for credible financial information, improved pension awareness, and digital transformation as key foundations for building household and national prosperity.

Abojani Investment CEO Robert Ochieng noted that many Kenyans struggle to make sound financial decisions due to overwhelming and often conflicting information.

“In today’s digital era, there is information overload. What people really need is reliable guidance to make informed decisions,” he said.

Ochieng stressed the link between mindset, relationships, and financial outcomes, arguing that social and mental capital often influence financial success. He also encouraged households to invest in equities, especially in companies whose products they already use, as a path to sustainable wealth.

He added that better information could help families handle unexpected income wisely: “With the right information, households are more likely to invest lump-sum earnings rather than consume them.”

The conference coincided with the Retirement Benefits Authority’s 25th anniversary. Representing the Authority, John Keah commended Abojani for advancing financial education and highlighted the role of pensions in long-term wealth creation.

Keah pointed out gaps in pension coverage and adequacy, noting that although progress has been made, many Kenyans remain uncovered or under-saved.

He announced ongoing proposals to amend pension access rules: under the current law, members leaving a scheme can withdraw up to 50% of their savings. The RBA is proposing to reduce the accessible portion to 30% to encourage higher retirement savings.

Bank of Kigali CEO Dr. Diane Karusisi, the conference's chief guest, emphasized the responsibility of financial institutions to support asset ownership and enterprise growth.

She also called for reduced barriers to listing on African stock markets, arguing that current requirements exclude many promising businesses.

On the investment front, NCBA Investment Bank Managing Director Muathi Kilonzo announced the launch of NCBA’s offshore investment solutions. The offering aims to give clients access to global markets, currency diversification, and professionally managed portfolios.

Speakers from NCBA, Centum Re, Absa Bank Kenya, and CIC Asset Management discussed cross-border market development, regional capital flows, and innovation in financial services. They highlighted the need for integrated markets and modern financial tools to unlock Africa’s economic potential.