Family Bank secures Ksh.2.6B trade finance facility to support MSMEs

The partnership, which seeks to bolster trade financing in the country, will direct the funds towards financing trade for MSMEs, while at least 50% will support women-led businesses and agribusiness-related enterprises, including those engaged in agricultural production, processing, logistics, infrastructure, and broader value chain activities. 

The facility is a 2X-qualified investment, part of a global initiative to drive women empowerment in developing economies. 

“SMEs in Kenya continue to grapple with foreign currency liquidity constraints, which hamper their ability to access affordable financing and transact seamlessly. With SMEs forming over 80 per cent of our customer base, it is crucial for us to roll out innovate, friendly and cost-effective ways of doing business,” said Family Bank CEO Nancy Njau.

“This partnership not only supports our five-year strategy to scale SME lending and deepen market segmentation but also accelerates our ambition to bridge financing gaps for vital businesses, particularly those led by women and those in the trade and agriculture sector,” she added.

Seema Dhanani, the East Africa Regional Director at BII said the partnership will boost agri-focused and women-led businesses. 

“This is aligned with our support to Kenya’s goal of building a vibrant MSME sector that drives economic and social transformation,” remarked Dhanani.