As Kenya grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change, the role of financial institutions in fostering a sustainable future has never been more critical. At the forefront of this movement, NCBA Group is actively channeling capital through its green loan initiatives and championing environmental resilience across the region.
NCBA has firmly embedded sustainability into its core strategy, encapsulated in its ambitious Change the Story sustainability agenda. The bank has concrete targets designed to shift the financial landscape towards a greener tomorrow.
The bank aims to mobilize a staggering Ksh. 30 billion for green and sustainable financing by 2030. Beyond financial commitments, NCBA is dedicated to environmental action, planning to grow 10 million trees by 2030, achieve 100% waste recycling, eliminate single use plastics within its operations, and drastically cut its direct emissions by 50% by 2030. The bank recently planted 3,000 mangrove trees in Kwale while also leading a cleaning effort in Ukunda, in commemoration of World Environment Day 2025.
NCBA’s green loans are strategically deployed across key sectors poised for significant environmental impact. In the renewable energy space, the bank offers robust financing facilities, notably for solar energy solutions. This includes pioneering Solar PV leasing, a model that allows businesses and individuals to access solar power systems through monthly payments, removing the high upfront cost barrier of purchase and installation. NCBA recently partnered with Ofgen Africa to install a 181 kWp Solar PV system at Haco Industries. The initiative is projected to slash Haco’s electricity costs by 41%, marking a significant step toward cleaner, more efficient energy use in Kenyan manufacturing.
Furthermore, NCBA has launched a Ksh. 2 billion electric vehicle (EV) financing initiative, complemented by plans for expanding EV charging infrastructure across the region, paving the way for sustainable transportation.
Recognizing the pivotal role of agriculture in Kenya’s economy and its vulnerability to climate variability, NCBA is also a strong proponent of sustainable agriculture. Their financing extends to crucial interventions like irrigation systems and borehole water access, bolstering resilience against recurring droughts. This support, which often encompasses entire value chains from seedling to distribution, encourages climate-smart farming practices essential for long-term food security.
NCBA actively champions Green SMEs and women-led businesses, understanding their vital role in driving grassroots innovation and sustainable economic growth.
The scale of NCBA’s green impact is significantly amplified through its collaborative approach. Renewed partnerships with the African Guarantee Fund (AGF), including a Ksh. 3 billion credit guarantee facility, are specifically designed to de-risk lending to SMEs in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. Similarly, a USD 50 million facility with Proparco further bolsters NCBA’s green financing capabilities, with a particular focus on supporting women’s economic empowerment within sustainable ventures.
NCBA stands out for its commitment to transparency in sustainability. It is one of the first African financial institution to publish a Sustainable Development Impact Disclosure (SDID) report under new global guidelines. The bank has a clear framework for its sustainability strategy and impact tracking.
In essence, NCBA’s green loans are more than just a financial product, they are a cornerstone of a forward thinking strategy. By strategically channeling capital, forging partnerships, and championing transparency, NCBA is not only driving economic growth but also actively building a more environmentally resilient and sustainable future for Kenya and the region.