Absa, Unilever Launch KES 4bn Programme to Finance Distributors
The facility will provide digital working capital to distributors and retailers, aiming to improve inventory flows, strengthen consumer goods supply chains and support SME expansion across Kenya.
Absa Bank Kenya and Unilever Kenya have launched a KES 4 billion financing programme aimed at easing working capital challenges for distributors and retailers, a move expected to strengthen the country’s consumer goods supply chain while supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The financing facility will target more than 38 Unilever distributors across Kenya, alongside retailers and stockists within their distribution networks. The two companies plan to on board more than 10 distributors before the end of the year, providing them with faster access to financing to improve stock levels and expand their businesses.
How the KES 4 Billion Financing Programme Will Work
The initiative will be delivered through Absa’s Wezesha Stock Loan solution, a digital financing platform that provides businesses with working capital and stock financing. Under the programme, eligible distributors and retailers can access unsecured loans of up to KES 10 million, including financing for local purchase orders (LPOs), invoice discounting and asset finance. Loans of up to KES 5 million can be processed and disbursed within 48 hours through a fully digital application process.
Digital Loans Aim to Speed Up Access to Business Capital
Furthermore, the partnership seeks to address one of the biggest obstacles facing businesses in Kenya’s distribution sector, limited access to affordable and timely working capital. By improving access to financing, the programme is expected to help businesses maintain consistent inventory, respond more effectively to customer demand and scale their operations.
Why Supply Chain Finance Matters for Kenyan SMEs
Speaking during the launch, Yusuf Omari, Absa Bank Kenya Interim Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, said the bank is building on its long-standing relationship with Unilever to expand financial access across the distribution value chain.
He noted that the financing solution is designed to remove traditional barriers to capital, enabling distributors and retailers to access funding more quickly while creating opportunities for business growth and strengthening the broader ecosystem.
Unilever Kenya Managing Director, Luck Ochieng , said distributors play a central role in ensuring products reach consumers across the country, serving a network of more than 140,000 retailers.
“This partnership with Absa bank provides them with access to flexible and timely financing, enabling them to grow sustainably, improve product availability, and better serve their customers. It also reinforces our commitment to building a resilient and inclusive supply chain locally.” He added.
Partnership Builds on Decades-Long Banking Relationship
Ultimately, the programme also builds on a banking relationship between Absa and Unilever that dates back to 1980. Beyond improving liquidity for distributors, the initiative is expected to contribute to job creation, strengthen SME resilience and support economic activity across Kenya’s consumer goods sector.
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