This archive report was first published on 25 June 2021.
On June 24th, the Kenya Bankers Association (KBA) held its 59th Annual General Meeting, where members elected new leaders to steer the industry for the next two years. NCBA Bank Managing Director and CEO John Gachora was elected as the new chairperson, while Family Bank Chief Executive Officer Rebecca Mbithi took on the role of vice chairperson.
Mr. Gachora succeeds Joshua Oigara, who has led the KBA Governing Council for the past three years. During his tenure, Mr. Oigara and Mr. Gachora navigated the industry through one of its most challenging periods, including advocating for the repeal of interest rate controls and promoting resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking at the AGM, Mr. Oigara expressed his gratitude to members for their support and praised the collective efforts of the KBA member banks. He highlighted the industry's contributions to the National Emergency Response Fund, which totaled Ksh1.7 billion, demonstrating the industry's commitment to society.
Mr. Gachora and Ms. Mbithi thanked the KBA Governing Council and member banks for their support and pledged to work closely with stakeholders to sustain industry growth.
Under the new leadership, the KBA is expected to continue promoting industry-wide sustainability efforts, including the Persons with Disability (PWD) Digital Accessibility project, which was initiated in 2020. The project aims to enhance the digital banking experience for customers and employees with disabilities.
Dr. Habil Olaka, the KBA Chief Executive Officer, welcomed Caritas Microfinance Bank, which joined the Association in 2020, and expressed confidence in the bank's ability to contribute to the industry's long-term vision of advancing Kenya's sustainable economic development.
