KCB Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding ethical and inclusive financial services through Islamic banking, saying the move is aimed at enabling customers to access banking solutions that align with their faith, values and financial aspirations.
Speaking during the launch of the bank’s enhanced Islamic banking solutions in Nairobi on Wednesday, KCB Group Director for Strategic Innovation, Mark Mwongela, announced that the lender is shifting from traditional banking models towards customer-centred products that recognize the diverse needs and values of clients.
Mwongela noted that the new offering reflects customer feedback and demonstrates the bank’s commitment to designing financial products that make customers feel recognized, appreciated and understood.
“For us, as a bank, we have come to understand that if financial services reflect your values, then we are supporting your vision and principles in your day-to-day life,” he explained.
Further, the Director revealed that customer insights played a key role in shaping the products, recalling discussions with stakeholders who challenged the bank to create banking spaces where Islamic banking customers feel acknowledged from the moment they walk into a branch.
“We are gathered here to look at products that speak to customers’ needs so that every time they interact with KCB, they feel seen, heard, appreciated and valued,” Mwongela added.
He thanked customers for their continued loyalty, pointing out that their trust has enabled the bank to innovate and improve its services.
“We do not take the relationship that you have with KCB for granted. Your loyalty and confidence have been instrumental in shaping who we are as an institution,” he assured.
Mwongela at the same time observed that the banking industry is evolving beyond measuring success through asset size and profitability, with greater emphasis now being placed on personalized customer experiences and value-based financial solutions.
According to the Director, the expansion of Islamic finance forms part of KCB’s broader growth strategy, complementing its investments in digital payments, financing for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women-led businesses and ecosystem partnerships.
Financial inclusion, he emphasized, should go beyond opening bank accounts to empowering entrepreneurs to grow businesses, families to build wealth, and young people to pursue economic opportunities.
“Financial inclusion must revolve around meaningful participation in the economy through empowering customers and communities to invest confidently in their future,” the Director urged.
Mwongela added that the bank remains committed to building a strong Islamic finance ecosystem through collaboration with industry partners, innovation and sound governance.
On the other hand, he appreciated Mastercard for its continued partnership in advancing secure and inclusive digital payment solutions, saying the collaboration combines global technology with local market knowledge to deliver products that improve customers’ lives.
In addition, the Director also acknowledged the role of the bank’s Shariah Advisory Council in ensuring its Islamic banking products remain compliant with Islamic principles and continue to inspire customer confidence.
He maintained that KCB, which has operated for more than 130 years across East Africa, remains committed to supporting economic growth by financing businesses, infrastructure, regional trade and digital innovation while promoting inclusive banking.
Equally, Mwongela reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to enabling customers to bank in a manner that is consistent with their faith and values.
“When people are empowered to bank according to their values, they participate more confidently and inclusively in the economy,” he reiterated.
By Paskal Osonga/Doreen Kasung’wa
