Press Release

SBM Bank Kenya Announces Kes 1 Billion Green Finance Facility to accelerate nationwide EV adoption

NAIROBI, KENYA – April 29, 2026: SBM Bank Kenya has launched a KES 1 billion Green Finance Facility to accelerate the adoption of electric (EV) and hybrid (PHEV) vehicles.

Available over the next 12 months, this dedicated fund provides consumers and businesses with accessible credit to transition to eco-friendly mobility. By lowering financial barriers to entry, the finance facility is playing a pivotal role in reducing Kenya’s carbon footprint and supporting a sustainable, zero-emission future.

To lead by example, the bank has invested KES 45 million to modernize its own logistics. Through a strategic leasing partnership with CFAO Mobility Kenya, SBM Bank has taken delivery of five advanced BYD vehicles, demonstrating the immediate viability of green technology.

"Our goal is to catalyze a national shift," said Bhartesh Shah, CEO of SBM Bank Kenya during the unveiling of the high-performance fleet of BYD’s. "While we are proud to modernize our own logistics with this high-performance fleet, our primary mission is to enable our customers to do the same. By committing KES 1 Billion in financing, we are ensuring that sustainable mobility is an accessible reality for Kenyan entrepreneurs and families, not just a corporate concept."

By adopting the BYD Shark 6 and Sealion 6 for its own fleet, SBM Bank serves as a blueprint for the sustainable transition the bank is now financing for customers. This move sets a new standard for environmental stewardship, supporting Kenya’s goal to reduce carbon emissions by 32% by 2030 

“This collaboration sets the stage for future EV fleet transactions, expanded adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, and the development of supporting services such as charging solutions, fleet management, and lifecycle optimization. Our goal is to build a sustainable ecosystem that supports Kenya’s green mobility ambitions while delivering measurable value, ” said Nicolas Ruffier des Aimes, GM of BYD by CFAO Mobility Kenya.

This initiative follows a year of robust financial performance for the bank. Having achieved a significant turnaround with a Profit Before Tax of KES 614 million and a 55% rise in total operating income, SBM Bank is now leveraging its strong capital position to fund high-impact ESG initiatives. The KES 1 Billion credit line underscores the bank’s strategic intent to harmonize financial growth with responsible corporate citizenship, ensuring that as the bank prospers, it empowers its customers to contribute to Kenya’s national climate action plan of reducing carbon emissions by 32% by 2030.

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About SBM Bank Kenya 

SBM Bank Kenya, part of the SBM Group headquartered in Mauritius, is a trusted financial institution with a 50-year heritage rooted in stability and excellence. Since its entry into the Kenyan market in 2017, the bank has established a robust presence with over 30 branches, an expansive ATM network, mobile and online banking, and a 24-hour contact center. Serving Retail, SME, and Corporate clients, SBM Bank Kenya leverages its global expertise and local knowledge to provide an unparalleled banking experience, upholding values of transparency, integrity, and excellence.

 

About CFAO Mobility Kenya Limited  

CFAO Mobility Kenya, a subsidiary of the CFAO Group, is the distributor and service provider of Toyota, Yamaha motorcycles, Volkswagen, Suzuki, Mercedes Benz passenger, trucks and buses, Hino, Hyundai light trucks and Sinotruk (HOWO) as well as Winpart (value parts) and AUTOFAST quick service stations 

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SBM Bank Kenya Announces Kes 1 Billion Green Finance Facility to accelerate nationwide EV adoption