NCBA has renewed its partnership with the African Guarantee Fund – AGF. The bank has secured a KES 3 billion guarantee facility for 10 years to support Small and Medium Enterprises [SMEs]. A key focus of this partnership is to enhance financial access for women-led businesses.
So far, this collaboration has enabled NCBA to disburse KES 16.4 billion in loans. AGF will support 696 SMEs through KES 8.0 billion in financing. This has helped create over 7,200 jobs, including 2,200 for women and 4,100 for youth.
The renewed agreement was signed by NCBA Group Managing Director John Gachora and AGF Group CEO Jules Ngankam. It aims to further empower women entrepreneurs. NCBA will benefit from a Capacity Development grant from AGF to help increase its lending to women-owned SMEs and build a pipeline of credit-ready businesses.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
Mr. Gachora emphasized, “This strategic partnership highlights our commitment to women-led SMEs and their role in sustainable economic growth.”
Recently, during an International Women’s Day event in Kapsabet, NCBA reiterated its dedication to women entrepreneurs by offering customized financial solutions, strategic partnerships, and business training programs. At least 30% of NCBA’s procurement is directed toward women and youth.
AGF’s support aligns with its Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) program and its efforts to promote green growth through the Green Guarantee Facility.
NCBA also advances sustainability and inclusion through a KES 6.5 billion partnership with Proparco, investing in women’s economic empowerment and climate-friendly projects. Additionally, it spends KES 150 million annually on education, sports, and environmental initiatives.
Women-led SMEs are encouraged to partner with NCBA for access to finance, business tools, and support to grow and thrive.
