On October 1, 2021, National Bank of Kenya (NBK) launched a Sh5 billion Water, Sanitation and Hygiene financing programme in partnership with Aqua for All. The programme aims to support businesses dealing with water, sanitation and hygiene products and services.
The programme targets micro, small and medium enterprises, corporates, public and private entities, vendors, technology providers, and suppliers of products and services within the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene value chain. This includes last mile connectivity for communities and individuals.
Speaking at the launch, Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Chief Administrative Secretary Dr Andrew Tuimur assured that the National and County governments will promote good corporate standards in Water Sanitation Programmes (WSPs) and establish a regulatory environment that recognises commercial finance providers.
NBK Managing Director, Paul Russo, reiterated the bank's commitment to providing tailor-made products and services to SMEs to ensure long-term growth. He urged SMEs in the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene sector to take advantage of the programme to address financial gaps in their operations.
Aqua for All Managing Director Josien Sluijs said the partnership will create a conducive environment for water sector enterprises, institutions, and communities to provide sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene services.
The programme offers flexible financing solutions under two different facilities: the 'Jenga Biashara Loan' for informal and semi-formal entrepreneurs, and the Infrastructure Project Loans for household connections, smart metering, solar projects, and other efficiency improvement assets.
By Hamdi Mohamud
