NCBA Group is setting a definitive new benchmark for corporate responsibility by fully integrating its business strategy with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Through its groundbreaking Sustainable Development Impact Disclosure (SDID), the bank has moved beyond traditional philanthropy to offer a transparent and measurable blueprint for driving systemic change in Kenya.
The SDID, which adheres to international best practices, is the public manifestation of the bank’s firm-wide sustainability platform, Change the Story. It details how NCBA mobilizes private sector capital to address the nation’s pressing development challenges, showcasing a commitment to accountability and tangible results.
NCBA’s strategy is built upon five core intentions, each designed to deliver maximum positive impact and measured by clear metrics:
1. Bridging the access gap
NCBA aims to expand financial access, particularly for women and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This strategy involves increasing its physical footprint (reaching 26 counties with 92 branches in 2023) and leveraging its digital channels. In 2023 alone, the bank disbursed Ksh. 893.2 billion through digital platforms, dramatically improving accessibility for underserved populations.
2. Mobilizing capital for climate action
The bank has announced an ambitious target to inject Ksh. 30 billion into sustainable and green financing by 2030. This capital is strategically allocated to projects that accelerate the transition to a greener economy, funding initiatives in renewable energy (including solar and geothermal financing totaling Ksh. 9.1 billion in 2023), water conservation, and sustainable transport solutions.
3. Operational efficiency
NCBA is committed to minimizing its internal environmental footprint. Key targets include achieving a 50% reduction in direct carbon emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 2030, phasing out single-use plastics, and striving for 100% waste recycling across all operations.
4. Investing in people
The bank prioritizes a diverse and skilled workforce, reporting high staff representation by women (51% of the total workforce in 2023, with 36% in senior leadership). This focus on human capital is supported by a robust 93% staff retention rate and a commitment to providing training for 100% of employees.
5. Trees and training
Through annual community investment of Ksh. 100 million, NCBA supports critical social and environmental programs. Its most ambitious environmental commitment is to plant 10 million trees by 2030. In 2023, the bank planted over 344,000 trees and provided mentorship to 3,000 students.
By setting these clear, measurable goals and publicly disclosing its progress, NCBA is setting a new benchmark for responsible and impactful banking across the African continent.