The Co-operative Bank of Kenya has been recognised for its contribution to financial inclusion in Africa after being named SME Bank of the Year at the 20th African Banker Awards held in Brazzaville, Congo. The ceremony took place on the sidelines of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Annual Meetings and celebrated institutions driving transformation in the financial sector.
The award recognised Co-op Bank’s expertise and long-standing commitment to financing micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), reinforcing its position as one of the leading lenders to entrepreneurs in Kenya and the wider East African region. The bank stood out among continental nominees for expanding access to finance and supporting business growth through tailored SME banking solutions.
Speaking after the recognition, Co-op Bank Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Gideon Muriuki said the award affirms the lender’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening economic growth through inclusive financing.
“This recognition is a powerful validation of our unique expertise and deep-rooted commitment to serving the banking needs of MSMEs across the Eastern African region,” Muriuki said, adding that the bank remains focused on helping entrepreneurs unlock prosperity and create jobs across the region.
The African Banker Awards, organised by African Banker magazine, recognise excellence, innovation and resilience among financial institutions advancing economic development and financial inclusion across Africa. Co-op Bank’s latest recognition adds to its growing profile as a key player in SME financing and enterprise development.
