The Global SME Finance Forum 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa, recognized institutions delivering innovative solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises across the continent.
Co-operative Bank of Kenya was among the awardees, acknowledged for its business banking initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency, market access, and financing options for SMEs.
Representatives at the forum included Benjamin Metho, Head of SME Banking at Co-operative Bank Center, and Elizabeth Makokha, Head of Retail Trade Finance, who engaged with industry leaders on emerging trends in SME finance and digital banking solutions.
The recognition cited initiatives that streamline payments, facilitate credit access, and integrate technology into business banking operations, enhancing performance and scalability.
These solutions have been deployed across multiple markets, producing measurable improvements in transaction efficiency, revenue management, and overall productivity for small and medium enterprises.
The forum gathered financial institutions, industry experts, and policymakers to evaluate tools that strengthen SME resilience and expand market participation.
Discussions centered on the practical applications of digital platforms, structured lending models, and sector-specific advisory services to support enterprise growth.
Co-operative Bank’s initiatives stood out for their measurable impact on enhancing business operations and enabling SMEs to access timely and affordable financing.
Award ceremony proceedings featured Qamar Saleem, Global SME Finance Forum Manager, and Vittorio Di Bello, FIG Industry Director, reflecting collaboration among financial institutions to improve SME access to capital and services.
The recognition reinforces the role of African financial institutions in driving enterprise growth by delivering solutions that integrate technology, financing, and market knowledge.
SMEs across the region benefit from digital tools, tailored lending products, and advisory services that improve competitiveness, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
The award positions Co-operative Bank alongside global peers committed to scaling innovations that address financial and operational challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses.
By combining sector-specific financial solutions with digital innovations, the bank continues to support enterprise resilience, market access, and sustainable growth in multiple African economies.
The forum showed how coordinated interventions between financial institutions and industry partners can enhance productivity, strengthen market linkages, and contribute to economic development across the continent.
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