KENYA - Beyond traditional banking: partnership with UBA to power a green and inclusive future

Innovative Kenyan entrepreneurs often face a familiar barrier- great ideas but limited capital. A new partnership between IYBA-SEED, WE4D, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit - GIZ and United Bank for Africa - UBA Kenya is set to rewrite that story. The organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand inclusive financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). 

Financing built for today’s entrepreneurs

This partnership goes far beyond traditional lending. The partners will co-create financial products designed for the realities of young, women-led, and green businesses - where cash flow and growth potential matter as much as collateral.

Planned activities include :

1. Alternative financial services such as cash-flow–based lending and gender-intentional credit scoring to open doors for underserved entrepreneurs.
2. Loan-readiness support with practical toolkits and training to strengthen SMEs’ financial management.
3. Financial literacy programmes for entrepreneurs, while equipping UBA staff to better serve this segment.
4. Networking platforms that connect financiers with business-support organisations, fostering an ecosystem of knowledge, capital, and mentorship.

Voices from the partnership

“This collaboration with UBA Kenya represents a crucial step in building inclusive financial systems that match the realities of young and women-led enterprises.” 
“Together, we can co-create innovative solutions that expand access to finance and drive green, sustainable growth.”
said Thomas Jaeschke, IYBA-SEED and WE4D Team Leader. 

Echoing this vision, Mary Mulili, MD/CEO of UBA Kenya, noted:

“This partnership is not only about lending, it’s about equipping our staff with the tools and insights to truly understand SME needs and respond with inclusive, practical solutions. We are committed to enhancing our lending capacity so entrepreneurs can access the capital, knowledge, and networks they need to thrive.”

Building a stronger, greener ecosystem

Tailored technical, aiming at strengthening the skills of UBA staff and widening SME access to tailored finance, the initiative directly responds to challenges flagged by Kenyan entrepreneurs and County Integrated Development Plans. It aims to ensure that no promising business is left behind for lack of capital, while simultaneously accelerating Kenya’s transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy.

This partnership stands as a model for how financial institutions and development partners can jointly drive inclusive growth, empowering women, creating jobs, and nurturing businesses that keep Kenya’s economy and environment thriving.