Absa Bank Kenya has been awarded the International Finance Corporation's (IFC) Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) global certification for implementing green building technologies aligned with international standards. The institution, the first in Kenya to achieve this recognition, allocated nearly KES45 million to retrofit branches including Nkrumah, Kisii, Queensway, Westend Headquarters, and Bishops Gate Head Office.
The upgrades included energy-efficient LED lighting, which significantly reduced the bank's carbon footprint. Water conservation measures such as low-flow taps, dual-flush toilets, and bottle-less water dispensers were also installed. These initiatives cut energy and water expenses by 30% and 33% respectively, translating to annual savings of up to KES25 million.
Absa Bank’s Head of Sustainability, Jane Waiyaki, emphasized the institution’s commitment to eco-friendly practices during the certification ceremony at the 2022 East Africa Property and Investment Summit in Nairobi. She stated the bank aims to combat climate change while pursuing net-zero operations by 2040, calling the EDGE certification a milestone in its sustainability journey.
Waiyaki highlighted alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including affordable energy, sustainable cities, and responsible consumption. She noted the certification enables the bank to better support clients transitioning to greener practices.
A 2019 International Energy Agency report identified the building sector as responsible for 40% of global energy-related carbon emissions. Green buildings mitigate this by adopting resource-efficient practices across their lifecycle, from construction to demolition.
IFC’s Corinne Figueredo praised Absa’s role in advancing green building adoption in Africa, citing the growing demand for EDGE certification. The bank joined the Kenya Green Building Society in 2020 and adheres to the Principles for Responsible Banking and the United Nations Global Compact.
