Unilever, Equity roll out Sh2.4Bn fund to fuel SME ecosystems

Equity Bank Kenya Managing Director, Moses Nyabanda (seated right) and Unilever East Africa Managing Director, Luck Ochieng (seated left), during the signing of the partnership between Unilver and Equity Bank Kenya
Unilever and Equity Bank have joined forces in a KES2.4 billion partnership to launch a distributor financing scheme aimed at strengthening supply chains and driving inclusive growth in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector.
Through this initiative, Equity Bank will extend tailored working capital loans to Unilever distributors, helping them boost inventory, expand into underserved markets, and ensure consistent product availability.
Beyond streamlining distribution, the collaboration empowers small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with greater access to credit—advancing financial inclusion and sustainable growth across the region.
Equity Bank Kenya Managing Director Moses Nyabanda described the partnership as a strategic alignment of purpose. “Our mission is to empower consumers, businesses and communities,” said Nyabanda.
“This collaboration with Unilever allows us to extend affordable, accessible credit to traders who are key drivers of Kenya’s economy and with Equity’s reach across all 47 counties, we’re positioned to scale this quickly. Manufacturing is a vital pillar of Kenya’s economy, contributing 7.8 percent to the national GDP. We are proud to partner with Unilever, to offer tailored distributor financing solutions. This initiative not only empowers SMEs but also fosters inclusive economic growth by channeling capital to where it’s needed most: into the hands of entrepreneurs who drive the supply chain from end to end."
Unilever East Africa Managing Director Luck Ochieng said “We are delighted to continue empowering our business partners through this transformative partnership with Equity Bank, enabling them to access affordable financing, build capacity, and unlock new commercial opportunities. This initiative is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth, ensuring that every distributor, regardless of size or location, has the tools to thrive."
"By investing close to KES2.4 billion annually, we are not only strengthening our supply chain but also creating meaningful employment and promoting economic development within our business communities across Kenya," he added.