The Banking Buzz
For a Smarter Tomorrow
4
A Win for the Team and Our ESG Agenda
We’re still buzzing from the excitement of the Kenya International 6-Goal Polo Tournament, where SBM Bank clinched a thrilling 7-7F victory over Turkish Airlines! The match had it all speed, skill, and plenty of nail-b ting moments But beyond the triumph on the field, there’s so much more to celebrate
Our polo sponsorship isn’t just about fancy horses and fast-paced chukkas (though that part is certainly fun!). It’s also about building a lasting impact.
This event gave us valuable visibility, with med a coverage extending far beyond the Nairobi Polo Club’s lush grounds.
But most importantly, it reinforces our commitment to the broader community, linking directly to our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals
Polo may be centuries old, but our involvement is firmly rooted in the future By supporting the growth of sports like polo in Kenya, we contribute to local talent development and promote healthy, active lifestyles both cornerstones of our ESG objectives.
Empowering SMEs with the Jijenge Biashara Value Proposition
SMEs in Kenya and globally face significant challenges, including access to credit and effective cashflow management.
At SBM Bank, we understand the vital role SMEs play in driving the economy. In line with our growth objectives for 2024, we've developed a value proposition tailored to SME needs
Our new Jijenge Biashara Savings Account offers 5% interest p.a. and provides traders access to Working Capital Financing, allowing them to borrow up to 2x their account balance.
For example, with KES 1M in savings, you can access a loan of KES 2M
Client Appreciation Cocktail Event
We had the immense pleasure of hosting two exclusive events to show our appreciation for our valued clients. On September 25th, we celebrated our elite clients, treasury partners, and corporate clients at the elegant Tamarind Hotel in Mombasa.
This cocktail event, hosted by our Group CEO, Raul, and our Kenya CEO, Bhartesh, created a vibrant atmosphere for networking, allowing us to express our gratitude and strengthen our relationships
In addition, we held a dedicated corporate event at the Radisson Blu Hotel, focused specifically on appreciating our corporate clients.
This gathering provided an opportunity for meaningful interactions and discussions about our collective goals and future collaborations
Both events underscored the importance of our partnerships and our commitment to delivering exceptional service We believe that strong relationships with our clients are essential for mutual growth, and these gatherings reinforced our dedication to fostering a collaborative environment.
Welcoming Aijaz Shalla – Our New Chief Operating Officer
We were excited to announce the appointment of Aijaz Shalla as our Chief Operating Officer. Aijaz brought with him a wealth of experience and expertise, having dedicated over 27 years to various industries, including Manufacturing, Power, and Banking.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communications from the National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, and a Master’s in Business Administration (Banking & Finance) from IGNOU, Delhi, where he was a Gold Medalist, Aijaz had a solid academic foundation. He was also a Certified Associate of the Institute of Bankers – India.
Throughout his career, Aijaz led impactful digital transformation initiatives, especially in the Banking and IT sectors He successfully managed projects in Branch Automation, Core Banking, Treasury Management, Card Systems, E-Channels, Data Warehouse, and ERP, reflecting his vast technical and operational expertise.
We looked forward to Aijaz's contributions and leadership as we aimed to revolutionize operations at SBM and drive our continued success.
One on one
Simplicity is Power:
Linda’s Story and Our Digital Revolution
At SBM Bank, we’re driven by innovation, but we’re also powered by the people who make it happen. Today, we’re excited to highlight Linda Madaga, our lead in Digital Banking, whose expertise and vision have taken our digital transformation to new heights.
Linda’s Journey: A Pioneer in Digital Banking
Linda is not just leading the charge in digital innovation; she’s redefining it With her passion for simplicity and her focus on the customer experience, Linda has been instrumental in upgrading our digital platforms to ensure they meet and exceed modern demands. Her philosophy is straightforward yet powerful: “The most sophisticated technology should feel effortless.”
Her leadership has guided the rollout of new features on our Mfukoni app, ensuring that whether you’re applying for a loan, checking your account, or processing payments, it all happens with just a few intuitive taps.
As Linda puts it, "The digital age calls for creativity and simplification. Our customers expect seamless, instant experiences and that’s exactly what we’re delivering "
Digital Banking Reinvented: What’s New on Mfukoni?
Platinum Savers and Pay Day Advance Applications
You can now apply for Salary Advance and Pay Day Advance directly through the newly upgraded Mfukoni app. No more paperwork or waiting in line just log in, enter your details, and submit It’s that easy
All Your Loans and Accounts in One Place
Managing finances has never been easier. With the new Mfukoni, you can view all your loans, overdrafts, and account details in one intuitive interface. Need to check your fixed deposits or loan balances? It's all at your fingertips.
Instant Transaction Processing
No delays, no frustrations Every transaction through Mfukoni is processed instantly, ensuring you can send money, pay bills, or make investments with just a few taps.
Committed to Sustainability �� Kash It Campaign: Mobilizing for Success
In line with SBM Bank’s commitment to fostering environmental sustainability, we recently organized a tree planting event at Ngong Road Forest This initiative, led by our Group Board Director, Ms Shakilla Bibi, our Group Chief Sustainability Officer, and our CEO, Mr Bhartesh Shah, marks a significant step in our broader sustainability agenda aimed at protecting our environment for future generations
The event highlighted SBM’s dedicat on to promoting green initiatives and tackling climate change through reforestation efforts. Our tree planting activities are part of the bank's long-term strategy to minimize carbon footprints and enhance the environment's resilience
As we continue to drive sustainable practices in all aspects of our business, we encourage all staff and stakeholders to embrace this mission Together, we can build a greener, more sustainable future
Be our ambassador by promoting sustainable business and advocating for a greater social and environmental responsibility
3Rs Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. We encourage all staff to adopt sustainable practices by reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling wherever possible.
Keep Pushing Forward: Kash It Big!
While these results are impressive, the campaign is far from over There's still time for every team and individual to make their mark! Whether you are on the leaderboard or working your way up, every lead counts, and every effort moves us closer to our goals.
Let's keep up the momentum!
Continue engaging with your clients, identifying new deposit opportunities, and ensuring that together we can Kash It big.
We are committed to building a brighter future together, and our Kash It campaign is a prime example of this dedication
Designed to mobilize and grow our deposits, this init ative is not just about reaching financial targets; it's about teamwork, excellence, and recognizing the outstanding contributions of our staff.
Top Performers: Leading the Way
every deposit strengthens our ability to provide financial solutions to more customers, supporting their aspirations while securing the bank’s future The Kash It campaign encourages all staff to play an active role in achieving this by driving increased deposits across branches and departments
We are thrilled to spotlight the top performers who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to this campaign Their success highlights what can be achieved with determination and teamwork
Top 5 Teams for Kash It Leaderboard
Corporate: 85 Leads 1 Kisii Branch: 57 Leads 2.
Upper Hill: 27 Leads 3.
Industrial Area Branch: 21 Leads 4. Hurlingham: 18 Leads 5.
Top 5 Back Office Champions
Sheila Kerubo Omae (Kisii Branch): 27 Leads
Joseck Oroko Onkoba (Kisii Branch): 16 Leads
George Maina (Custodial): 6 Leads
Joseph Ngugi (Eldoret): 5 Leads
Caroline Sigey (Kericho): 5 Leads
Top 5 Front Office Champions
Rashid Jeneby (Oldtown): 16 Leads
Modesta Olotch (Hurlingham): 14 Leads
Joyce Ndungu (Global And International Banking): 14 Leads
Caroline Njue (Upper Hill): 14 Leads
Fredrick Opas (Kisumu): 13 Leads
SBM Bank Kenya recently partnered with DHL Worldwide Express Kenya, successfully empowering over 400 SMEs to access global markets.
This collaboration combined SBM’s financial expertise with DHL’s global logistics capabilities, providing SMEs with crucial training in exports and e-commerce
Key Highlights:
Empowered SMEs: Delivered insights and practical training for export and e-commerce
Expanded Market Reach: Assisted SMEs in navigating international markets and adapting to global trends
Comprehens ve Support: DHL supported SMEs in marketing their products and identifying export platforms.
This initiative built upon SBM’s previous partnerships, including those with the African Guarantee Fund and programs for women-led businesses SBM remains dedicated to promoting economic development and sustainability in Kenya
Roadshow Activation Success at Rongai Branch
We recently held a 3-day roadshow activation at our Rongai Branch, which turned out to be a great success. The event generated strong business leads, attracting numerous potential clients and further boosting our visibility in the reg on. We're excited about the opportunities this brings and look forward to converting these leads into successful business ventures
Celebrating Our Recent Win at the Banking on Women Awards!
Our bank has been recognized at the prestigious Banking on Women Awards, where we won the award for Rewarding Banking Programs
This accolade honors financial institutions that provide innovative and customer-centric programs, delivering except onal value and benefits specifically to women customers
This recognition is a testament to the significant growth and success of our Women Markets Program. Our commitment to understanding and meeting the unique needs of women in our community has truly set us apart
Through our collective efforts, we have not only expanded our reach but also made a meaningful impact on the l ves of our women customers, empowering them to ach eve their financial goals
SBM Bank Polo player
Pictorials
Dennis Nyakundi donating blood during the Blood drive
MOU signing with SBM and Mobikey for asset financing
Nyambura Ndungu moderating at the Africa Fintech Forum Lindah Madaga
Lydia and Maryanne posing with the CX awards won by SBM