Tag: Co-op Bank Kenya News

IFC partners with Co-op Bank and Phillips to help African Healthcare providers access essential medical equipment

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, today launched a partnership with Philips and Co-op Bank to help smaller businesses in Africa’s health sector purchase essential medical equipment and strengthen their response to COVID-19.

The partnerships are the first under the IFC-led Africa Medical Equipment Facility, designed to provide risk-sharing facilities to help small businesses access up to $300 million in loans and leases.

A local dispensary in rural Kilifi, Kenyan coast (file image)

Through the facility, IFC is partnering with medical equipment manufacturers and local financial institutions to support healthcare providers in East & Central Africa.

The loan size to smaller healthcare providers -which serve more than half of Africa’s population, including low-income patients – is expected to range from $5,000 to $2 million, to help them lease or purchase equipment.

Currently, most smaller healthcare operators in Africa cannot secure bank loans due to their perceived high investment risks, meaning they can’t afford medical equipment, renovations, or to recruit qualified personnel.

“Many smaller healthcare businesses in Africa don’t have the equipment they need to respond to COVID-19 and deliver other vital services,” said Makhtar Diop, IFC’s Managing Director.

“Unlocking access to finance can save lives now and will, in the long term, strengthen healthcare systems across the continent.”

Supported by the International Development Association Private Sector Window (IDA-PSW) Blended Finance Facility and the Global Financing Facility for Women, Children and Adolescents (GFF), the facility falls under IFC’s Global Health Platform, which was launched to help developing countries fight the coronavirus pandemic and increase their healthcare systems’ resilience.

“Lack of access to affordable quality healthcare is one of the most pressing issues of our time,” said Winfried Jansen, Health Systems Leader, Philips Africa.

“Philips aims to contribute substantially to improving healthcare in Africa through innovative solutions that are tailored to local needs. Many clinics on the continent would like to invest in new medical technology but find it difficult to obtain the necessary finance. Together with Philips Capital and through this partnership with IFC we are enabling healthcare facilities to make quality healthcare available to a large group of people.”

IFC expects to expand the Africa Medical Equipment Facility to more countries and invites interested financial institutions and equipment manufacturers to contact IFC to explore partnerships

How I found out having a car is no longer a luxury but a necessity

Posted on by Ozymandias

You don’t really realize what a car can mean until you’re in dire need of one. I got to find out exactly what this truly means just the other day. It is actually like feeling more than knowing the old adage about not knowing the value of something until it’s gone.

Mine is a story very similar to a lot of others these days of Corona. I got a call at 3:30 AM in the morning. It was from my brother. Apparently, my father had been taken seriously ill and he needed to be rushed to hospital.

Now, of all the days when a mechanic could let you down, my father’s trusted mech had picked the previous day to delay in releasing the car which we had given him for a routine service. And with the curfew set up as it is, we couldn’t run the risk of attempting to pick it up so we agreed to claim it the following day.

And so there I was at the witching hour, my father in dire need of transportation to a hospital, his car at the garage and I have no car. My brother and I agreed that he would try to rouse the neighbours and see who would be willing to help. I advised him to call rather than WhatsApp the estate group because of the urgency.

On my end, I attempted to search for an available cab using one of these digital apps. There were none in my vicinity. I decided that rather than panic, I might aswell grab a quick shower and then check when I am done. In my haste, I forgot to switch on the heater so the cold water rushed down my body and caused my system to surge with a bolt of energy. I was truly awake.

I got out of my five-minute shower and attempted to search for a cab to no avail. I called my brother and he had managed to reach one of our neighbours who had rushed to our aid and they were currently en route to a hospital. I informed him of my situation and let him know that I was doing everything within my power to get to the agreed-upon hospital.

Panic had begun to set in and I decided to try my luck at the matatu stage. The reason I did not wake up my neighbours is that I had just moved into a newly built apartment and I was the first tenant. And without thinking, I set one foot ahead of the other until I made it to the stage.

To my shock, I found a solitary matatu. I thanked my God and hailed it, rushing inside. But if you have ever entered the first matatu ikifungua kazi, then you know they aren’t in much of a hurry as they attempt to get as many passengers as they can. And every minute felt like an hour to me.

 

Despite the agonizing wait, I patiently waited until we were on the way. My phone kept going off and I kept talking to my brother who appraised me on the situation as it unfolded. Fortunately, my father had suffered a heart attack and it was not another Covid case. Turns out the nosy driver had been eavesdropping on the conversation and when he heard I was in a rush to get to hospital, he struck a conversation with me asking me to pay for the empty seats and they would get me to the hospital.

I do not know how the heavens work but on this day, God’s machinations were such that I happened to see an ad that spoke to my very being. It was a Co-op Bank ad that promised 80% financing for a vehicle. I happen to bank at Co-op Bank but given the rush, I quickly threw this coincidence to the back of my mind and rushed in to the hospital after paying the matatu to find out what my father’s situation was.

Fortunately, it was stable. And it was only while I was narrating my morning odyssey to my brother that the ad I had previously seen flashed back in my mind. I knew what the next few days would entail for me. And you too can apply to buy a car. All you have to do for a flexible financial plan with Co-op Bank:

And lest we forget, one doesn’t need to be a client, even non-Co-op Bank customers can benefit from the deal.

The bank has partnered with World Navi to assist their clients to import vehicles safely, with up to 80% asset financing, in a drive dubbed Shika Dinga na Co-op!

What do you get when you Shika Dinga na Co-op?

  • 80% asset financing.
  • Access to high-end vehicles.
  • 100% safe & reliable vehicle importation to your doorstep.
  • 3 months warranty on engine & transmission.
  • A privilege of choosing from a wide choice of cars from various source countries.
  • All cars come with accident-free and genuine mileage certificates.
  • No risk of stolen parts or non-performance.

To learn more of this deal and options available, click here.

One can alternatively visit the nearest Co-op Bank branch and speak to customer care agents.

Do you have side hustle ideas and need a car for it? Here’s an easy way to acquire one – brand new!

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

It’s a new era.

There’s an immediate need to re-examine traditional life tenets, basics and principles.

A century ago, what was used as the yardstick in society norma and expectations have taken a complete paradigm shift.

For instance, owning a car is no longer a luxury. It’s a necessity.

Modern day issues have forced people living in urban areas to rethink that bias in favour of the countryside or further off suburbs.

While one may still work in the city, the family can be based in the village. This means a lot of commuter hours.

A random weekend drive to the village means enough supplies on the return trip to last the family an entire week – fruits, vegetables or even live chicken!

The typical family car has become a means to provide for the family – what with job layoffs and salary cuts.

Perceptive family men are comfortably earning a decent income from boot sales, either in groceries, second-hand clothes or even parcel deliveries.

The list of possible side hustles owning a car affords is endless. The major problem for most entrepreneurs is acquiring one.

There’s a way one can easily get a brand new vehicle with a customised, flexible financial plan with Co-op Bank.

Wait, lest we forget, one doesn’t need to be a client, even non Co-op Bank customers can benefit from the deal.

The bank has partnered with World Navi to assist their clients import vehicles safely, with upto 80% asset financing, in a drive dubbed Shika Dinga na Co-op!

What do you get when you Shika Dinga na Co-op?

  • 80% asset financing.
  • Access to high-end vehicles.
  • 100% safe & reliable vehicle importation to your doorstep.
  • 3 months warranty on engine & transmission.
  • A privilege of choosing from a wide choice of cars from various source countries.
  • All cars come with accident-free and genuine mileage certificates.
  • No risk of stolen parts or non-performance.

Take advantage of this opportunity. Its time to get a brand new car for your family, and get another way to make extra money from a side hustle!

To learn more of this deal and options available, click here.

One can alternatively visit the nearest Co-op Bank branch and speak to customer care agents.

The five major ‘Not-To-Do Things’ when hitching a lift in someone’s car!

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

There’s an unofficial creed to follow when riding in someone’s private car. It’s a little like crashing in someone’s crib. In Kenya, it goes a notch higher….

Here’s a few pointers to follow.

Agree to the owner’s views on contentious matters in the duration of the drive. Topical matters that demand loyalty or some societal bias, say politics or sports, the car owner enjoys a monopoly of ideas.

Just pray that he commands some decent acumen.

The trick is to steer the conversation from sports if his team is hanging by a thread from possible relegation.

It’s your duty to curse errant drivers you meet on the road. It doesn’t matter how incompetent he is, remember which team you rooting for.

A special bonus is earned if you roll down the window and scream at a clueless boda boda guy.

You hail from an angry republic – it’s time to vent that anger.

Thou shall not touch the stereo. I repeat, for all austerity. Aside, it makes sense: it is HIS stereo. Make a prayer that the tape cassette playing rhumba on loop gets jammed.

Sometimes, providence may smile in your direction and your host has an ear for good music.

Enjoy the ride, but do not sing along if the host is not – hitching a lift doesn’t give you an arena to showcase hour vocal prowess.

Asking for a lift in the village comes with additional tags. Cars get scratched by overgrown hedges. Cars get stuck in mud, or hit undersides on big rocks.

Follow the driver’s cue: if he wants to check out the car, get out too. Make a scene. Get sprawling on the ground to check the car’s innards. Is there a scratch?

This is the perfect time to remember high fuel taxes, county funds and how that doesn’t reflect in decent roads.

Be aware of your standing in society. Are you important? Or is there someone else more important’er?

Enroute, the host may be inclined to offer someone else a lift.

In Kenya, the front seat is sovereign. Be sure to offer your seat if you deem the other passenger as of higher social standing. Chances are they’ll turn it down, but, woe unto you if the host has to ask you to vacate the seat.

If you’ve been this embarrassed, then you’ll jump at the slightest opportunity to own your own ride.

Perhaps, it’s time to make your own playlist and enjoy it on a long drive.

There is a simple way – by taking advantage of an awesome, pocket-friendly financing deal thanks to Co-op Bank in partnership with World Navi – heavyweights in automobile acquisition.

Co-op Bank has partnered with World Navi to enable their clients to import vehicles safely, with upto 80% asset financing!

The importation process takes no more than 60 days. The car is delivered to your doorstep, like pizza!

This is a chance to make your opinions count on the long drive.

Click here to learn more about the financing deal.

Why is Joginder Singh such a timeless legend in the world of motorsport?

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

Joginder Singh.

If that name doesn’t ring a bell, and evoke pleasant Easter memories, well, you missed out on exciting exploits of a motoring sport legend.

Joginder Singh (file image)
Joginder Singh (file image)

Joginder is non-arguably the greatest driver to cast in the now-defunct Safari Rally, mid-60’s to late mid-70’s.

The Safari Rally was traditionally set over the Easter weekend, and for good reason – it’s the rainy season.

It was an endurance rally, and only the best in terms of driving skills, hands-on engine tinkering experience and physical endurance could hope to complete it.

Joginder, who later earned the moniker ‘The Flying Sikh’, proved his mettle in all aspects.

The legend had started out as a spanner boy in his father’s garage, and this greatly inspired his exploits behind the wheel.

The Flying Sikh grabbed his first victory in 1965, in a Volvo PV544, with his brother as the co-driver. He later switched to a Mitsubishe Colt Lancer 1600 GSR to clinch victory in 1974, and 1976.

It’s in this Colt Lancer that Joginder’s feats made him world famous.

For instance, the 1968 Safari Rally was planned to run the entirety of the Great Rift Valley, and end in Nairobi.

Joginder got the No.1 car tag – which, in rallying circles, is considered jinxed. And it proved so, halfway in the rally.

He was flagged off the ramp first, but, halfway, his Mitsubishi Colt developed clutch problems.

It was rainy and getting stuck was normal.

Somewhere on Mau Escarpment, he watched around 20 of his competitors zoom past in a spray of muddy water, as he tried fixing his transmission.

His Colt couldn’t engage forward gears, just the reverse gear.

Joginder, being Joginder, turned his Colt around and started playing catch up, in reverse.

Subsequently, he managed to overtake almost all of them, stuck in the mud along the route – in reverse gear!

In that rally, he finished 3rd – having driven the last half in reverse gear – in extremely muddy conditions.

Easter hasn’t always been so boring, and slow. It was a season of adrenaline-filled rally fiesta.

The menu was two-way: Either extremely muddy, or extremely dusty.

Motoring was raw. The rally cars were pretty basic – none of the fancy bells and electronic assists in modern cars. To triumph, you had to be in the game.

Easter would find us hogging cattle ruts in the route picked by the rally organisers. If beyond the region, it was a favorite past time following the live reports of the rally via the national broadcaster.

That’s how Joginder Singh gained immortality, and genesis of the saying: He drives like Joginder…

This year, Easter has been ruined by the ravaging pandemic that has resulted in curfews and lockdowns. There’s not much to choose from, in terms of marking Easter with your family.

However, while observing the measures, one can still have an Easter break in select restaurants, outdoor camp grounds and some bit of travel.

One easy way to be safe is to avoid tangible cash – as security against scheming thieves and the pandemic.

The use of Co-op Bank Visa cards is a sure fire way to keep safe from the virus, and take advantage of awesome discounts negotiated by Co-op Bank for their clients using the Co-op Visa cards, Co-op ATM’s and Co-op Credit cards.

You’ll have fun with family shopping for gifts, paying for fuel or food and accommodation – and still get to save a lot of money.

To learn more about discounts availed by use of Co-op Visa cards, click here.

Happy Easter!

Co-op Bank teams up with eco.business Fund to finance sustainable agriculture in Kenya

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

The eco.business Fund has provided its first investment in Kenya in the amount of $10 M to Co-op Bank.

The subordinated loan will be on-lent to sustainable agribusinesses, contributing to the fund’s mission of conserving biodiversity, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, and mitigating and adapting to climate change.

The investment will provide much-needed financing for businesses to enhance sustainable measures in their agricultural practices, particularly important in light of the challenging operating environment created by the COVID-19 crisis.

Agriculture is the backbone of the Kenyan economy, employing approximately 75% of the rural population, and making up 34% of the country’s gross domestic product.

However, commercial lending to the agricultural sector remains disproportionally low. This funding gap limits the ability of producers and processors to invest in sustainable production practices, further compounded by the economic fallout caused by the global pandemic.

The investment aims to provide financial resources to those that need it most, while simultaneously promoting conservation finance as mainstream.

Co-op Bank is the third largest commercial bank in Kenya, and the primary bank for agricultural cooperative societies.

Through this new investment, the eco.business Fund and Co-op Bank will provide necessary credit to sustainably certified agribusinesses, such as those in the coffee, tea, and horticulture sectors, Kenya’s main agricultural exports.

By financing green measures such as solar and hydroelectric installations for tea factories that reduce reliance on fuelwood, and cold storage solutions that reduce post-harvest losses, the partners hope to boost sustainable production practices and conserve the unique ecological landscape of the country.

Dr. Gideon Muriuki, Co-op Bank Group Managing Director
Dr. Gideon Muriuki, Co-op Bank Group Managing Director

Dr. Jens Mackensen, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the eco.business Fund, stated:

“We are excited about our fist investment in Kenya: A country rich in biodiversity and opportunities for sustainable development. This new partnership with Co-op Bank promises to be a fruitful one as the bank is well positioned to act as an enabler of sustainable production practices. Only by providing tailored financing to the agricultural sector, a key driver of economic activity and sustainable development in Kenya, can we collectively promote green finance with the goal of generating positive environmental and social impact.”

Commenting on the sign-off of this partnership, the Group Managing Director and CEO of Co-op Bank Dr. Gideon Muriuki said:

“Right from our founding as a bank for agriculture co-operatives, we have always strived to support farmers in their journey to achieve sustainable livelihoods. This new partnership with eco.business Fund that makes available USD 10 Million for on-lending to farmers is a winner on many fronts; it provides financing that is structured to suit the financing cycles of agriculture, and also comes with the support mechanisms to assist farmers to make a successful pivot towards sustainable, climate-smart agriculture.”

Want to experience terror? Riding in a fisherman’s dug-out canoe beats bungee-jumping!

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

You haven’t lived if you haven’t sunk your toes in the white sands and gulped for breath in the ocean surf on the Kenyan coast.

People tell awesome stories of their coastal retreats, albeit generously peppered with hyperbole.

This story is neither awesome, nor laced with additives. My first solo trip had lots of fun moments, but Son of Adam is wired to record the outrageous. Normal is boring.

Well, cue in my first semester break. I decided to backpack to the coast. Backpacking is the fall-back option for travel enthusiasts on a budget. None of my mates was crazy enough to join, so I travelled solo.

I had pored over a tourist map detailing exquisite spots to visit. I couldn’t miss Wasini Island.

Wasini Island is an idyllic tourist spot on South Coast. It’s the far most island, and a quick perusal online described a land of positivity, friendly people with a mixed heritage.

Wasini is a few nautical miles to Tanzania, or Zanzibar. That’s why ‘mixed heritage’ tagged at my heart strings – I’ve always liked to meet people from these lands.

A shoestring budget notwithstanding, I landed at Shimoni. This is a small town, that’s serves the island. There’s a dock, with all sorts of boats – fishing and passenger boats to the island and beyond, tanker boats, and other sorts.

The locals are drawn like magnets to visitors. A lone, backpacking student got noticed in an heartbeat. Even less to recognise a budget-traveller!

The boat fees to cross to the island vary. I chose the lowest. Turns out that I chose a dug-out canoe. This was a fisherman from the island who had delivered his day’s catch to the mainland.

My prior sailing experience was limited to a few rounds in a boat at Uhuru Park. I was then five or six, on a family day out over Christmas. It wasn’t exactly sailing, those boats have pedals!

The canoe is long and narrow. A lot like the biblical path to heaven. We squeezed in, the fisherman and I facing each other on opposite ends.

He hands me a container, a jerry can cut in half. Says nothing. He grabs a pair of oars and pushes off the pier.

When you make a bad decision, the universe is ruthless. I realised, immediately. The canoe started filling up. Am trying to lift up my back pack. The fisherman points at the half-container with his lips. He’s rowing.

I have to keep throwing out water! My backpack is getting wet! The sea is tossing us in the air like balloons! Am literally inches away from the water!

It was dusk – at some point all I could see were tiny dots of light across an endless expanse of black water!

If you’ve watched ocean documentaries, then you’d know the horrors that abound in the deep sea.

I was shaking. Half from the chilling cold, and the other from the fear of the unknown! I found myself praying – even calling on my ancestral gods!

Some how, we made it across. I could have voted that nonchalant fisherman the greatest sea captain that ever sailed.

In retrospect, I discovered that in times of uncertainty, my default setting is deeply religious. Thankfully, the people and the general ambience on Wasini Island gifted me an incredible holiday.

There’s a choice of pocket friendly options available for travel enthusiasts – courtesy of a partnership between travel magnates Bonfire Adventures and Co-op Bank.

Co-op Bank has negotiated a deal for clients wishing to book a Easter holiday retreat through Bonfire Adventures.

There’s a major discount up for grabs if payments are done with Co-op ATM cards, Co-op Credit cards or Co-op pre-paid cards.

Bonfire Adventures have an amazing array of travel packages covering the Kenyan coasts in its entirety. All exclusive resorts and spots from the North to the South Coast, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime Easter offer.

To learn more about the Co-op Easter travel discounts, click here.

Happy Easter!

Co-op Bank leads the industry as it releases a 14 billion report for Year 2020

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

Co-op Bank Group is reporting a Profit before Tax of Kshs. 14. 3 Billion for the financial year 2020 compared to Kshs. 20. 7 Billion recorded in 2019, and a Profit after tax of Kshs 10.8 Billion compared to Kshs 14.3 Billion in 2019.

This is a 23% reduction on account of increased Covid 19-related loan loss provisions and the absorption of currency translation losses in our South Sudan operation.

The Group has taken loan loss provisions of Kshs. 8.1 Billion,being a 220% increase from Kshs. 2. 54 Billion in 2019 in appreciation of the challenges that businesses and households are grappling with from the disruptions occasioned by the ongoing pandemic.

We continue to actively engage our customers to support them through this period, by re-aligning the servicing of facilities, funding and transactional needs as the situation unfolds. A total of Kshs.49 Billion in loans have been restructured to support customers impacted by the pandemic.

The Group has sustained the Balance Sheet growth with an Asset Base of Kshs. 537 Billion as at 31st December 2020.

The Group continues to implement proactive enterprise risk management initiatives to ensure uninterrupted business operations in the following ways;

Fortification of our digital channels to support uninterrupted access to banking services by customers; over 92% of our services are now on alternative bankingchannels.

Enhancement of digitization of internal bank processes and engagement platforms, to build contactless capabilities for both customers andstaff.

Adoption of a work-from-home model for the safety and wellness of bank teams,and ensuring safe spaces for staff who continue to serve in physical touch points.

Robust engagement with regulators to ensure full compliance andsupport.

Key financial highlights include; –

Balance sheet; The Group has seen sustained Balance Sheet growth as hereunder;

Total Assets grew by Kshs 80 Billion (+18%) to Kshs. 537 Billion compared to Kshs 457 Billion in the same period last year.

Net loans and advances book grew by Kshs 20 Billion(+8%) from Kshs.266.7 Billion to Kshs. 286. 6Billion.

Investment in Government securities grew by Kshs.44. 1 Billion (+37%) to Kshs. 161.9 Billion compared to Kshs.117.8 Billion in 2019.

Customer deposits grew by 13.8% from Kshs. 332.8 Billion to Kshs 378.6 Billion.

Borrowed funds from development partners grew by Kshs. 19.6 Billion (74.2%) to Kshs 46 Billion from Kshs.26.4 Billion in2019.

Shareholders’ funds grew to Kshs. 90.7 Billion (+14.4%) from Kshs. 79.3 Billion in 2019 enabling us to continue pitching for big ticket deals.

Profit &Loss

Totaloperatingincomegrewby11.1%fromKshs48.5BilliontoKshs53.8 Billion.

Total non-interest income grew by 1.9% from Kshs 17.2 Billion to Kshs 17.5 Billion.

Net interest income grew by 16.1% from Kshs 31.3 Billion to Kshs 36.3 Billion.

Total operating expenses grew by 41.7% from Kshs 27.8 Billion to Kshs.39.4 Billion on account of higher loan loss provisions.

Innovative Customer DeliveryPlatforms

Through our multi-channel strategy, the Bank has successfully moved over 92% of all customer transactions to alternative delivery channels, an expanded 24-hour contact centre, mobile banking, 576 ATMs, internet banking and over 23,000 Co-op Kwa Jirani banking terminals.

A successful Universal Banking model and the implementation of Sales Force Effectiveness has seen the Group serve over 8.8 million Account holders across allsectors.

Key focus on digital banking,with the all-telco Meo-op Cash Mobile Wallet continuing to play a pivotal role in the growth of non-funded income with 5 Million customers registered and loans worth Kshs 58.5 Billion disbursed in 2020.

Over 116,000 customers have taken up the MSME packages that we rolled out in 2018, and 10,750 have been trained on business management and planning. We have earmarked Kshs 23.5 Billion for MSME lending, with Kshs.16.8 Billiondisbursed to date through our E-Creditsolution.

Our unique model of retail banking services through Sacco FOSAs enabled us provide wholesale financial services to over 479 FOSA outlets, and issue over 1.4 million Sacco-Linkcards.

Co-op Bank has engaged a global consulting firm to conduct a Credit Risk Adaptation Project named ‘Project Kilele’.

Key objectives of the project are:

End-to-end assessment of credit risk management practices by undertaking a comprehensive diagnostic review touching on each area of credit risk, including credit risk management framework with a key focus on riskgovernance, credit risk appetite, origination and underwriting process, credit approval process, credit scoring/rating models, and pricing.

Strengthen portfolio assessment and risk frameworks.

Enhance Collection platforms aligned to the new business operating environment.

Subsidiaries

Co-op Consultancy & Insurance Agency posted a Profit before tax of Kshs 788.6 Million as at 31st Dec 2020, riding on strong penetration of Bancassurance business.

Co-operative Bank of South Sudan that is a unique joint venture (JV)partnership with Government of South Sudan (Co-op Bank 51% and GOSS 49%) made a Profit before tax of Kshs 107.8 Million in 2020.

This performance however translated to a monetary loss of Kshs 1.65 Billion attributable to hyper inflation accounting occasioned by currency devaluation of the South Sudanese pound.

Co-op Trust Investment Services contributed Kshs. 70 Millionin Profit before tax in 2020, with Funds Under Management standing at Kshs. 127.5 Billion compared to Kshs. 102.1 Billion as at 31st December 2019.

Kingdom Bank (former Jamii Bora Bank) has a profit before tax loss of Kshs.76.3 Million for the year.

Kshs. 49 Billion Loans Restructured to Support Customers on Covid-19 With the Covid-19 crisis, the Bank has proactively engaged all customers and reviewed the following;

Customers requiring an interest moratorium period,

Customers requiring a better structure/longer repayment period, and,

Customers requiring additional funding to manage the crisis.

In total, a portfolio of over Kshs. 49 Billion has been re-aligned to offer our customers this much-needed support.

Kingdom Bank Limited

Kingdom Bank Limited is a fully-fledged Commercial Bank, licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya, with over 444,000 customers in 17 branches.

The acquisition offers Co-op Bank the opportunity to cross-sell and deepen product offering to the enhanced customer base and create a niche bank to offer specialized credit offerings that include MSME Banking, Microfi nance, Youth & Women Banking, Asset Finance and Leasing.

The subsidiary reported a loss of Kshs.76.3 Million for the year 2020 and is expected to turn around its performance in 2021.

MSMEFinancing

The Group secured a long-term financing facility from the IFC (International Finance Corporation) amounting to Kshs. 8.25 Billion for on-lending to MSMEs at affordable terms.

The proceeds of the facility will support customers to better cope with the disruptions brought about by the pandemic, especially those operating in the following key business areas;

Micro small and medium enterprises(MSMEs)

Businesses undertaking Climate-Smart Projects, including agricultural inputs and sustainable agricultural practices, renewable energy, energy efficiency and relatedareas.

Corporate Social investment

Co-operative Bank Foundation has provided Scholarships to gifted but needy students from all regions of Kenya.

The sponsorship includes; fully paid secondary education, full fees for University education, Internships and career openings for beneficiaries.

The foundation is fully funded by the bank and has so far supported 7,713 studentssince the inception of the program.

The bank gave a cash donation of Kshs. 100 Million to the Covid 19 Emergency Respond Fund.

Being cognizant of the huge role that we play in supporting communities especially during this period, we continue to operate in an economically, socially and environmentally-responsible manner.

Dividend Payment

While maintaining adequate capital buffers in light of the current operating environment, the Board of Directors has approved a dividend payment of Kshs. 1.00 per ordinary share held (2019 – Kshs 1.00) to be paid on or about 14th April 2021 to the shareholders registered on the Bank’s Register at the close of business on 31st March 2021.

This will be a much-needed relief in a pandemic year to the over 15 million­ member Co-operative movement that predominantly owns the bank.

Accolades

It was another notable year as the Bank received recognition both locally and internationally, including the following;
Co-op Bank was named Bank of The Year in Kenya, in The FT Banker 2020 Awards run by the Financial Times of London.

Co-op Bank was named Best Bank in Kenya at the African Banking Awards 2020 organised by EMEA Finance.

This is the third time around, having also won in 2018 and 2019.

Co-op Bank signed up to the United for Wildlife 2018 Mansion House Declaration, thereby joining the United for Wildlife’s (UfW) Financial Taskforce committing to fight the illegal trafficking in wildlife, by way of building illegal wildlife trade into existing financial crime compliance programs.

A few simple gestures that scream ‘I Love You’ louder than words will ever do

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

In February, love gets intoxicating. It’s time to spoil your loved one, and it’s supposed to be an easy endeavor. A lot of times, it ain’t. The simple rule is to make love a daily thing – it then becomes easier to nail it over Valentine’s Day.

Here’s a few tricks to navigate this minefield.

The morning kiss

This speaks concern, and attention. It doesn’t have to be much – perhaps, just a peck to the cheek will do. In a lot of instances, it also serves a message to other members of the household.

Breakfast bites

Once in a while – and, more so in the run up to the D-Day of Love, surprise your partner. Get up earlier, and prepare their favorite snack for the breakfast table.it doesn’t matter how poor your baking skills are – she’ll still treasure your burnt pancakes….

Frequent, subtle hugs

Nothing beats the feeling of love and contentment a girl feels when unexpectedly hugged from behind – in the unlikeliest of places. As she folds the laundry, cleans the dishes – hug her. It’s priceless.

The random texts

Fancy this: You are in the middle of a lengthy, boring boardroom meeting. The phone buzzes and the text reads: “Can’t wait to see you at dinner, my love. I got your favorite wine….” Texts work miracles – she’ll always be in love.

Compliments

Everyone loves to feel good. Act normal, and, non-committal, say something nice about her morning outfit. If she likes make-up, you’d do well to wonder aloud why she does make up! Every lady wants to hear that she looks nice with or without make-up!

Silly laughter moments

Memes. Yes, memes. Share memes and silly clips on Whatsapp all day long. It’s silly, but it keeps you in her mind all day long. She can’t wait to get off work and see you!

Cards & sticky notes

Sticky notes on the fridge door, with an affectionate message – especially in cases when work schedule makes one leave the house before the other. Sometimes, remind you spouse of your love in a note on the dressing mirror. They’ll melt with pleasure. It’s romantic!

Offer to pay bills

In the event that you dine out, or spend some time in a social place, offer to clear the bill. It shows affection. Demand and be fussy about the bill.

Nowadays, it’s increasingly easier to deal with the bill. There’s a lot of cashless ways to clear bills when shopping, at fuel stations, restaurants or when travelling.

For instance, this Valentine’s Day season, Co-op Bank clients using their Co-op ATM’s do not incur any extra costs when paying for services using the card. When shopping for gifts at the mall, paying for dinner at restaurants, fuelling at fuel stations, Co-op ATM’s attract np extra charge.

In addition, Co-op Bank has negotiated various discounts for Valentine’s Day treat at various getaways across the country. To enjoy these discounts, clients need to book for their holidays using the Co-op ATM cards.

To view packages available with the Co-op discounts, click here.

Co-op Bank sponsors the 40th edition of the KDF Annual Cross-Country Championships

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

Co-op Bank was once again the sole sponsor of this year’s Annual Kenya Defence Forces (AKDF) Cross-country Championships that took place on Friday 29th January, 2021 at Moi Airbase in Eastleigh, Nairobi.

The event happens every year in the month of January to enable KDF select its participants for the National, Africa and World Championship athletics events.

Gunner Kibiwott Kandie of Embakasi Garrison rips the tape to win the 10km Men’s Race

The annual event was graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Defence Dr Monica Juma and the KDF top brass led by the Chief of the Defence Forces Gen. Robert Kibochi. The Director Retail and Business Banking at Co-op Bank William Ndumia attended as sponsors of the event.

This year’s event was the 40th Edition of the Cross-country Championship. KDF’s deep athletics talent pool was on display, with world-renown athletics featuring including the double World Champion in both the 5,000m and also Cross-country Hellen Obiri who was representing her Laikipia Air Base Team.

Kahawa Garrison Atletics Team were crowned the eventual winners ofthe 40th edition of the KDF Annual Cross Country Championships.

She won the 10 kilometre Women Cross-country race. Kibiwot Kandie of Embakasi Garrison won the men’s 10 kilometre Cross-country event.

Kawaha Barracks was crowned the overall winners, followed by Moi Airbase Nairobi and Thika team respectively.

Snr. Pte Joyce Chepkemoi of Laikipia Air Base, the 1st Runners Up in the 10km Women’s Race, just after Hellen Obiri of Moi Air Base.

Co-op Bank continues to strengthen the partnership with the KDF in grooming athletic talent within the force, which continues to produce world-beating talent in athletics.

Co-op Bank will continue to support this sport that is beloved by Kenyans, and which continues to earn the country tremendous glory and fame around the world in addition to inspiring millions to lead healthier lives.

Co-op Bank secures Ksh 8.25 billion MSME financing from International Finance Corporation (IFC)

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

The Co-operative Bank of Kenya has secured a long-term financing facility arranged by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) amounting to US$ 75 million (Sh 8.25 Billion) for on-lending to MSMEs at affordable terms.

The long term loan has a tenure of 7 years.

Co-op Bank will apply the proceeds to of the facility to support customers to better cope with the disruptions brought about by the pandemic.

Co-OP Bank Group MD and CEO Gideon Muriuki during the recent virtual Bank AGM.

Specifically, the facility is intended to support customers operating in the following key business areas;

  • Micro, Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs),
  • Businesses undertaking Climate Smart Projects, including Agricultural inputs and sustainable agricultural practices, Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency and related areas.

Commenting upon the signing of the loan agreement, Co-op Bank Group Managing Director & CEO Dr. Gideon Muriuki said:

“The funding has come at a most opportune time as it boosts our ability to better support our MSME customers to stabilise and turn-around their businesses to meet the challenges brought about by the pandemic.”

Co-op Bank has leveraged its strong balance sheet with total assets at over Sh 510 Billion (as at 30 September 2020) and the IFC facility will substantially enhance the bank’s opportunities for growth and overall performance as here under;

  1. Support the key MSME business customers to not only survive the pandemic but also to remain operational and viable for the long term.
  2. Enhance the bank’s assets and liability match, with long-term loans to customers being financed using the long-term debt.
  3. Diversify the bank’s asset and funding portfolio by increasing long-term funding to support deposits funding.
  4. Boost the bank’s competitive position on account of affordable lending.

The key IFC facility comes in handy especially at this time as the bank is implementing mitigating strategies to help customers ride out the ravages of the pandemic.

Co-op Bank remains confident that the strategic initiatives that have been put in place focused on resilience and growth will give the business the impetus for sustained growth.

High school lesson number one: You don’t need to eat bread at every tea break

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

In a lot of ways, the plot in Barbara Kimenye’s popular book series – Moses – could have been set in my school. No wonder we loved those books so much.

High school in those days dished out much more than academic certificates – it was an all inclusive holistic life shaping – and how to survive in the harsh outside world.

First off, high school gave us a chance to venture outside the suffocating confines of our village and exposed us to other cultures.

He who doesn’t travel thinks his mother is the best cook.

We got used to weevil-ridden fare in smoky kitchens with sweaty, scowling cooks. In some occasions, we’d catch a whiff of kerosene in the githeri!

The village had embraced us in a loving embrace – then high school ripped us from that comforting embrace to the cruelty of sadistic bullies.

You learn that people can be unkind for no reason.

You learn the world doesn’t owe you a soft landing.

The basics of the social system – elite class, the middle class and the peasants – are first made apparent in high school. One learns there will always be people richer and wealthier, but not necessarily smarter. The grades in class is what mattered.

On money, lessons were served fast and harshly.

What may seem exorbitant to one may turn out to be mere chicken feed to another. In those days, I’d feel rich if my folks and relatives in the village sent me back to school with 500 bob as pocket money – shopping inclusive. Then I’d meet urban kids living like kings with unlimited funding!

High school taught us restraint – one doesn’t need to eat bread with margarine on every break.

The ingenious village kids would often come up with tricks to earn extra income.

I know a lad who cleaned the 4K club rabbit hutches for a fee. Most of the club’s members were averse to the tedious chores. He made a tidy sum after classes.

Another lad made a name as a data entry expert – copy writing notes and long assignments over the weekends. He’d also write fancy, wordy, perfumed letters to pen pals in neighboring schools for a fee.

The harshest lesson was dished out in form one, second term. I lost a tidy sum of money to con artists at the bus terminus in town on the way to school.

It was the school fees – stashed in my socks. To date, it amazes me how they had realized I had money on me.

Nowadays, luckily, school kids do not have to expose themselves to con artists and pick pockets.

There are a million cashless ways to pay school fees safely and conveniently, from home, office or in between activities on the farm.

Co-op Bank clients have a myriad of options available to easily and safely pay school fees for their kids.

Parents can easily pay school fees through Co-op M-Pesa Paybill 400200, MCo-op Cash, PesaLink or at a Co-op Kwa Jirani agent at the local grocery, pharmacy or supermarket. All one needs is to fill in details of the school’s Co-op Bank account number and the money goes straight to the school’s account.

There’s no need to expose pupils and students to the perils of carrying hard cash.

ALSO READ: https://www.ghafla.com/sponsored/the-choices-one-makes-on-the-first-week-in-high-school-makes-or-breaks-all-future-prospects/

Need ideas to surprise your family this Christmas? Try a signature Cassava-themed dish!

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

It’s time for healthier and more appealing food – to the eye, and the palate.

Here’s an often-ignored African food: The Cassava Tuber.

The cassava is versatile, but often suffers the blunt of masculine jokes. It’s a popular feature in fertility and virility jokes – there’s a conception that Cassava adds fuel to a man’s drive.

It’s true.

Besides, the root is gluten-free, grain-free and nut-free, making it a potential food substitute for people with allergies.

However, Cassava roots, skin and leaves contain cyanogen glycosides that are toxic, thus needs some preparation routines before consumption. Otherwise, it’s an important source of nutrients and energy.

This cyanide content is removed by peeling and cooking the tuber.

The Cassava tuber has an earthy, mild taste and starchy consistency. It can be used in a variety of recipes, basically as you might prepare potatoes – steamed, baked, mashed, boiled, or roasted.

Cassava can also be fried and made into chips, similar in preparation and taste to potato chips. The chips can be ingeniously flavored with native herbs and spices like garlic, cinnamon – and fried just as crispy and delicious as French fries.

This is a popular street delicacy in urban coast – peddled on the pavements and open-air markets.

Cassava can also be eaten similarly to mashed potatoes – combined with butter, roasted garlic, or grated cheese, or topped with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or a large spoonful of caramelized onion.

To start, examine your Cassava tubers.

The roots should have a clean fresh scent and snowy white center when cut open. Break off the end of the Cassava. If the flesh has black specks, lines, or any discoloration, it should be discarded.

Before cooking, Cassava needs to be peeled and cut. Because of the thick skin and protective wax coating, use a regular knife.

Stand the root up on its end and slice vertically along the edges until the skin has been completely peeled off.

Next, remove the core. Some methods may have the core removed after cooking, but, pre-removal is the safer bet.

Stand the root pieces on end and cut the peeled root in half lengthwise to expose the woody core – curve and discard the woody, thread core.

The cassava is now ready to cook in a recipe or safely frozen for future use.

At this point, you can use the Cassava in essentially the same ways you’d use potatoes, or yams. There’s lots of recipes: Cassava-meat recipes, Cassava-flour bread, Cassava crisps and chips, et al.

This is a healthy family treat. In the village, the plus is that Cassava is fresh, as it’s widely grown. All you need to purchase is the auxiliary ingredients.

In the village, support local businesses by shopping for ingredients locally. It makes no sense to shop for garlic in the city – check at the local grocery – who’s also may be a Co-op Kwa Jirani agent.

Co-op Bank has a unique banking experience through its Co-op Kwa Jirani model that mirrors banking in conventional banking halls.

At Co-op Kwa Jirani, instant cash withdrawals and deposits from Co-op Bank account, SACCO Account or Fethalink are available, a real convenience.

This festive season, access banking services at your local Co-op Kwa Jirani outlet – and boost your neighbor’s business by shopping locally!

ALSO READ: https://www.ghafla.com/sponsored/would-you-like-to-become-a-co-op-kwa-jirani-agent-it-doubles-traffic-and-increases-sales-at-your-business-premises/

Making a long drive upcountry for Christmas? Avoid getting stranded with a basic car check before the drive!

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

This festive week, lots of families will be making long drives to mark Christmas with their families or friends. Due to the prevalent Covid-19 conditions for most of the year, lots of these trips will be made upcountry.

There’s the comfort, flexibility and convenience a car affords one in this situation – and for some, they’ll be looking to hire a car for a few days.

There are a few individual checks one needs to make on the car before a long drive. No one fancies getting a break down at odd hours, middle of a forest.

What are (some) of the checks?

  • Have the tires checked for alignment and pressure.
  • Check the headlights and turn indicators – replace bulbs, or blinking frequencies.
  • The condition of brakes – replace brake pads, and have them tuned.
  • The AC – you don’t need your family stewing in the car on a long drive. They’ll be cranky.
  • Check & top up the coolant.
  • How’s the battery condition? Replace if it’s aged.
  • Check and replace engine oil and oil filters – if necessary.
  • Replace old, worn out wipers – if need be.
  • Make sure the spare tire is in good condition, and the tool kit to change tire if need arises.

Additional important things:

  • Obtain a small fire extinguisher for the car.
  • Tag along essential vehicle documents like registration, driving license and insurance.
  • Carry extra essential fuses of the car – if you have the skills to diagnose an electrical mishap.
  • An extra can of engine oil, brake and coolant fluids.
  • Have an emergency car kit – jumper cables, tire sealer, and tire Inflator with pressure check monitor
  • Basics like flash lights, a medical first aid kit and the triangle hazard signs

One other essential aspect is the fuel you purchase along the way. Avoid making purchases from unorthodox, road side dealers.

Most of this fuel is adulterated, and will eventually cause a vehicle break down – or greatly reduce performance.

Purchase fuel at established fuel stations only.

Another plus is that purchasing at established fuel stations allows one to make cashless payments – which greatly helps in general personal safety and in the fight against the pandemic.

For Co-op Bank clients, using the Co-op Bank Visa Cards comes at no extra charges.

Besides fuel purchases, Co-op Bank Visa Cards can also be safely swiped at restaurants, pharmacies, mall shopping, groceries, et al.

It’s convenient, safe and any transactions get instant notifications on mobile phone. It’s easier to track spending this festive season.

Get some helpful info on Co-op Bank Visa Cards by clicking here, or visit the nearest bank branch.

Have a Merry Christmas. Enjoy responsibly.

INTERESTING: https://www.ghafla.com/sponsored/step-aside-santa-claus-the-allure-of-new-clothes-is-what-made-christmas-day-magical/

Have you ever had to manage rowdy, inebriated family members on a Christmas Day night out?

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

A teetotaler’s idea of a bad evening is hanging out with people enjoying a drink. It’s all fun at first, but the scale soon tips – and it’s all downhill.

It suddenly shifts from a good evening to a realization that hanging out in a pub with this crowd wasn’t a good idea.

It’s especially worse, if it’s the annual Christmas Day family night out at the village pub.

The family joins up half of the tables in the pub into one long ‘conference table’. At first, everyone sits randomly, but as the night gets merrier, alliances start.

As a teetotaler, everyone wants to buy you a drink. Like, I mean, how many packs of fruit juice can you take in a night? Pretty soon, your section of the inebriation conference table is packed with soda and fruit juice.

Then, drunk long lost cousins will suddenly remember how close you all are.

Someone will throw an arm across your shoulders, and slur into your ear:

“Bro, hii miaka yote nishawahi kukosea?”

“Bro, ulisema utanipa kuku moja nikakulie Nairobi? Kwetu Rongai kuku ni expensive sana!”

Before you can think of something cordially apt in response, a mild scuffle at the far end of the table catches your attention.

Uncle Tosh, the official family MC and acclaimed ‘entrepreneur’ is a drink or two past his threshold. He wants to know where he’s parked his jalopy. In normal circumstances, that query would be valid – except that on this night no one drove to the village pub – it’s within walking distance from home.

One of your cousins at some point has doused your fruit juice with whisky.

You realize it’s close to curfew hour, and no one seems in a hurry to leave….

Shortly, the pub’s owner and former classmate beckons for a private chat. He wants the bill cleared, as the law demands close down before the curfew.

“They haven’t paid?” You ask, pointing at the lot over your shoulder with your thumb.

Mentally, you are fast making count of all the fruit juice ordered in your name.

“Oh, they have paid, except Tosh. He has a bill….” The owner tells you.

Meanwhile, Uncle Tosh is trying some Lingala moves between the tables. It’d be hilarious to watch, if the little matter of his pending bill wasn’t looming so low overhead.

“How much?” You ask.

“Tosh has 6,600 not paid. He asked for The Whisky bottle”.

At the village pub, The Whisky is an expensive bottle of Scotch whisky that has gathered dust on the shelf for a couple of years. No one had dared ordered it!

You approach Uncle Tosh, and he chooses the moment to remind you how in his hey days, he had sacrificed everything to pay your father’s school fees. You owe him, see?

Reluctantly, you realize you are the only hope in saving the family’s face. You need to clear the bill. How now, at almost curfew time in the village?

As a Co-op Bank client, you have an open option.

Next door, the late-night pharmacy is also a Co-op Kwa Jirani agent. A withdrawal allows you to clear the pending bill, though prior marked as “Bedsitter Rent Money”.

Well, Uncle Tosh ain’t entirely safe – you confiscate his phone to make a claim for refunds in the morning.

It’ll be easy to prove – every transaction at a Co-op Kwa Jirani gets instant notification sent to your mobile number for easy account management!

Click here to learn more, or visit the nearest Co-op Bank branch.

Also Read: https://www.ghafla.com/sponsored/did-you-know-that-a-co-op-kwa-jirani-agent-offers-the-exact-same-services-available-at-any-co-op-bank-branch/

Do you inwardly groan in agony each time your spouse mutters: “Aki sina pesa ya Chama hii mwezi….”?

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

Despite the effects of the pandemic, the festive season is gradually mellowing. It may not peak to usual levels in previous years, but, still, the festive fever is slowly spreading.

People seem happier on a general scale.

The urban dwellers are increasingly lighting up sleepy, dreary village paths. It’s a great change for new faces, new dialects and much-needed treats from the city.

The hilarious theatrics, though!

The inevitable Selfie’s are OK, and expected.

Grandma is patiently begrudging teenage grandkids with the odd Selfie. After all, she recently got funky new dentures – a set of heavenly white enamel jewels.

What’s not Ok, though, is the filters on every photo taken for Instagram. The village has a natural feel, a rusty aura that makes a fortnight away from the concrete jungle a worthwhile sojourn.

Be natural!

The men use the village vacation to bond with their age mates.

They’ll leave the homestead at break of dawn ‘to see Mwenda pale karibu na cattle dip’ – and, they’ll return at midnight, if at all.

They’ll return sloshed on local brews. But, true to self, they’ll chew their way through cold dinner to appease their spouses!

Men are simple in nature. No one cares about who bought a new ride, or who snapped up a lucrative tender with a local NGO. Their boyhood friendships are rekindled over a pot of local brew.

The urban women easily bond in secluded groups with their village peers and share funny tidbits about their husbands.

Women are generous – they’ll share wigs, weaves and Vitenge fabrics. They’ll share new recipes and coach each other on new beauty trends.

The urban ladies will call their urban friends and introduce them to their village friends – and it’s wonderful, basic networking.

“Aki wewe Mama Natasha, ukipatana na Mama Mike mnaweza kuwa marafiki sana”.

And, that’s how lifelong friendships are made.

Women tend to cement new alliances with future plans. They’ll make steaming pots of tea – and talk about forming new Chama’s. They’ll even elect new officials and form a conclusive constitution.

It matters not, if all members are in the village for X-mas. They’ll call lady friends they think are a fit for the new Chama.

It’s incredulous, but a section of the region’s most enterprising investments started with a group of ladies gushing about everything over a pot of tea.

The new Chama officials will hit the ground running. The treasurer role usually gets a grounded woman.

She’ll marshal the rest into opening a central Chama account.

For this account, each will get the number – and, like clockwork, each member channels monthly contributions.

The men? Well, the agony wrought upon by their spouses muttering:

“Aki sina pesa ya Chama hii mwezi….”

If you form an impromptu Chama with fellow ladies, it’s prudent to consider opening a central Chama account with Co-op Bank.

Co-op Bank has established a unique grass root banking experience through its Co-op Kwa Jirani model that mirrors banking in conventional banking halls.

These agents are your everyday grocer shops, butcheries, hardware dealers, et al.

At Co-op Kwa Jirani, one can make instant cash withdrawals and deposits from Co-op Bank account, SACCO Account or Fethalink.

That’s how conveniently new Chama members make deposits into a central account, right from next door!

https://www.ghafla.com/sponsored/thinking-of-making-merry-in-the-village-you-can-help-build-local-businesses-by-shopping-locally/

Co-op Bank partners with Thunes to rollout Co-opRemit – a new global money transfer solution

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

Co-operative Bank of Kenya (“Co-op Bank”), a leading financial institution in Kenya and the larger East Africa region, has partnered with Thunes, a cross-border payment provider, to launch an alternative global money transfer solution branded Co-opRemit©.

Co-opRemit streamlines the process of real-time money transfers particularly within Africa, allowing Co-op Bank customers in Kenya to move funds across the world quickly at an affordable rate.

Customers may send money directly to a foreign bank account or mobile number. Money transfers through this platform will bear no extra charge beyond the tariff, thus offering full transparency on forex fees.

The Head of Diaspora Banking at Co-op Bank Pauline Kieme puts pen to paper to sign off the launch of remittance service Co-opRemit, as the Senior Vice President – Africa at cross-border payments company Ms Sandra Yao looks on

With access to Thunes’ fully-integrated global network, Co-op Bank will enhance its digital banking services and deliver a convenient and cost-effective money transfer experience to its customer-base of over 8 million.

Co-opRemit users will be able to access the new money transfer service from channels starting off with any of Co-op Bank’s over 150 branches across the country, and later mobile and internet banking.

“We are delighted to support Co-operative Bank of Kenya in their drive to increase and improve cross-border payment options for their customers. We look forward to expanding their services with real-time, reliable, and convenient payments across the world, and empowering the SME landscape in Africa – two contributions which are key to driving the region’s growth,” said Thunes CEO Peter De Caluwe.

Speaking at the launch, Co-op Bank’s Director Retail & Business Banking Mr. William Ndumia  noted that the new money transfer service would be especially significant for SMEs in Kenya, many of which face remittance challenges stemming from inefficiencies in cross-border payments.

“With Co-opRemit© SMEs, who are one of our key customer segments,  can now look forward to a more efficient trading experience with seamless international payments at affordable rates.”

Step aside, Santa Claus. The allure of new clothes is what made Christmas Day magical….

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

For kids, the Christmas week is certainly the favorite time of the year.

The usually strict parents loosen up a wee bit. Even the perennial frown on Aunt Jessica softens into occasional beaming smiles. Bedtime is allowed to stretch late into the night curled up on the sofa in pajama’s watching Santa-themed stories on national television.

Snacks? No rationing.

It’s the time to binge on a year’s worth of candy and cake. Speaking of kitchen treats, the menu chart on the kitchen wall showing what’s cooking on what day is ignored for a while – mother goes on overdrive churning up delicious, rare delicacies.

It’s awesome that no one remembers to send you to the study room citing how badly you flopped in last term’s end papers.

It’s a good week to be alive.

What’s more memorable is the family shopping trip to get new clothes. Oddly, most dads keep clear of this errand. It’s usually up mother’s alley. To be sincere, dads mostly keep away from shopping of any kind.

Ha! Ha!

The allure of new clothes would drive us crazy. I mean, we’d get new clothes through most of the year – but, special Christmas Day clothes had this magnetism.

Suppose we’d get them a week or so before D-day, we wouldn’t get much sleep. Most part of every night would be spent trying and re-trying them. It’d force discerning parents to keep them hidden, till the day.

New shoes? It gets hilarious.

If you didn’t spend a night wearing new shoes under covers, your childhood was a boring one, or at best, lackluster.

This year, make the right memories for your kids with a special Christmas Day clothes treat. If matters not how full their closets already are, kids will always go nuts over new stuff. To stay within the guidelines when out shopping in malls, avoid liquid cash when making payments.

Coins and notes are aiding the spread of the pandemic.

Embrace cashless payments.

The Co-op Bank Visa Cards are perfect for these scenarios.

What’s more, cashless payments done with Co-op Visa Cards attract no extra fees – payments are free.

All Christmas shopping – clothes, shoes, gifts, food, fruits, name it – can all be paid for by swiping Co-op Bank Visa Cards at payment points.

This scrapping of payment fees also includes payments at fuel stations, hotel and flight bookings.

This enhances a vibrant, cozier lifestyle as it enhances safety for your money, convenience and clear money management with instant notifications for every transaction.

To learn more about Co-op Bank Visa Cards, visit the nearest bank branch, or check online by clicking here.