Co-operative Bank of Kenya has been honored at the Global SME Finance Forum 2025, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, for its outstanding commitment to innovation in business banking. The recognition affirms the bank’s role as a leading driver of financial solutions that support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the continent.
The Global SME Finance Forum brings together banks, development finance institutions, and private sector leaders to highlight best practices and celebrate achievements in SME financing. Co-op Bank’s award shines a spotlight on its sustained investment in products and services tailored to the unique needs of businesses in Kenya and Africa at large.
Representing Co-op Bank at the award ceremony were Benjamin Metho, Head of SME Banking, and Elizabeth Makokha, Head of Retail Trade Finance. They joined global industry leaders including Qamar Saleem, Global SME Finance Forum Manager, and Vittorio Di Bello, FIG Industry Director, in celebrating milestones achieved in empowering SMEs.
Co-op Bank has built a strong track record in supporting enterprises by providing access to affordable credit, trade finance solutions, and digital platforms that simplify business operations. The bank has also partnered with key international financiers to extend credit lines that boost working capital for businesses, reinforcing its mission to make financial services more inclusive.
“This recognition is not just for the bank, but for the thousands of SMEs we serve daily,” said the Co-op Bank team. “We are committed to scaling up impactful solutions that help entrepreneurs grow, create jobs, and strengthen Africa’s economy.”
The award underscores Co-op Bank’s position as a reliable and innovative partner for businesses navigating today’s competitive environment. With SMEs forming the backbone of Africa’s economies, the bank’s focus on practical, growth-driven financial solutions continues to create real impact on the ground.
A big congratulations goes to the Co-op Bank team for this global recognition, and for their ongoing efforts to champion business banking innovation across Africa.
