NCBA Bank Deepens Sustainability Commitment with KES 2 Billion Clean Transport Financing and 10 Million Tree Target
NCBA Bank Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and climate action through a multifaceted approach that includes a KES 2 billion clean transport financing initiative and an ambitious target to plant 10 million trees by 2030.
Speaking during an X Space conversation on sustainability hosted by Citizen Digital’s Claire Munde, Ann Nderi, Group Head of Sustainability at NCBA, highlighted the bank’s ongoing efforts to drive environmental resilience and low-carbon growth across Kenya.
“Trees absorb CO₂, cool the air, and, through transpiration, they help bring rainfall. Every tree is a silent warrior in the fight against global warming,” said Nderi. “That is why we are committed to planting 10 million trees by 2030.”
In addition to its reforestation drive, NCBA is investing heavily in the transition to clean transport. The bank has set aside KES 2 billion to finance clean transport solutions, supporting businesses and individuals as they move away from combustion engines toward electric and hybrid mobility.
“Transport accounts for nearly a quarter of global CO₂ emissions,” Nderi explained. “Our response is to enable the shift through financing that makes clean transport accessible and sustainable.”
Nderi emphasized that meaningful change begins with purpose-driven communities that understand the impact they want to create. She noted that opportunities abound for businesses ready to adopt sustainable practices, from renewable energy solutions to eco-friendly business models.
“The future of energy is clean, renewable, and limitless,” she said. “By harnessing solar power, we’re helping reduce carbon emissions, cut energy costs, and drive sustainable growth. Progress shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense.”
During the session, which also featured Sammy Waite from Chloride Exide, the discussion centered on how partnerships between financial institutions, energy providers, and businesses can accelerate Kenya’s green transition.
Nderi further highlighted the evolving role of sustainability within the financial sector, crediting the Central Bank of Kenya for integrating sustainability into banking regulations. Financial institutions are now required to report on climate-related risks and opportunities as part of their financial disclosures.
“The business case for sustainability is very strong,” she noted. “This is no longer a niche topic, it’s becoming mainstream. In the next five to ten years, solutions like solar finance and green loans will be as common as traditional banking products.”
NCBA continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable finance, leveraging partnerships, innovation, and knowledge-sharing to help businesses navigate the green economy.
“Ultimately, we are underwriting the future, not just for ourselves, but for our children and future generations,” Nderi concluded.
