Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE) and Sidian Bank have signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a structured partnership to strengthen access to commercial finance for manufacturing and value-addition enterprises across Kenya.
The agreement follows a series of technical consultations between the two institutions.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, KIE Managing Director Mr. Nelson M. Kwamini said the partnership would help bridge the financing gap experienced by enterprises transitioning from early stage development support to conventional commercial banking.
Under the partnership, KIE will use its enterprise development experience and national presence to identify and prepare suitable businesses while Sidian Bank will independently assess qualifying enterprises for appropriate financial services.
The collaboration will create a clearer pathway to working capital, asset finance, trade finance, digital payment solutions and other commercial banking products.
Sidian Bank Chief Executive Officer Mr. John Okule said the partnership brings together the institutions’ complementary strengths to support enterprise growth and improve access to financial services.
The Principal Secretary for the State Department for MSME Development, Hon. Susan Auma Mang’eni Cbs witnessed the signing and welcomed the partnership as an important contribution to the Government’s efforts to expand opportunities for entrepreneurs, particularly women and young people.
Also present were Mr. Mohammed Doyo, Secretary for MSMEs, officials from the State Department and technical teams from both institutions including KIE Managers Mr. Michael Njane and Ms Charity Ndeke.
With the framework now agreed, the partnership moves into implementation, focusing on productive investment, enterprise growth and sustainable opportunities for Kenyan entrepreneurs.
