EBRD supports small businesses in Kenya

• US$ 100 million loan will support lending to underserved MSMEs
• 35 per cent of funds will be lent on to women- and youth-led businesses
• 30 per cent will be dedicated to green investments

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is lending US$ 100 million (approximately €85 million) to KCB Bank Kenya Limited to improve access to finance for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Kenya.

This MSME credit line will help KCB Bank to reach an underserved segment of the market, supporting businesses that play an important role in economic growth and job creation across Kenya. A total of 35 per cent of the credit line will be lent on to women- and youth-led businesses, while 30 per cent will be allocated to eligible green investments.

In addition, KCB Bank will receive technical assistance in the form of training, advisory support and technical expertise in order to strengthen its green lending capabilities.

Heike Harmgart, the EBRD’s Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, said: “This is our first investment in Kenya’s financial sector. By partnering with KCB Bank, we are helping to channel much-needed financing to MSMEs, which are engines of job creation and economic growth. We are particularly pleased that this facility will support the transition to a greener economy and increase opportunities for women and young entrepreneurs, whose success is critical to Kenya’s long-term prosperity.”

Annastacia Kimtai, Managing Director of KCB Bank Kenya, said: “This facility will strengthen our capacity to extend affordable financing to SMEs – particularly those who have traditionally faced barriers in accessing credit. We remain committed to sustainable finance by increasing investments in renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture and other green projects that contribute to Kenya’s climate ambitions while creating long-term economic value.”

The EBRD began investing in Kenya in 2025, focusing on private-sector development, financial inclusion, sustainable infrastructure and the green transition.