The KCB Foundation, a subsidiary of KCB Bank focused on corporate social responsibility (CSR), is driving initiatives in youth skills development, enterprise growth, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy across East Africa. Under the leadership of Director Mendi Njonjo, the foundation emphasizes social and environmental justice, leveraging Njonjo’s 25+ years of experience in nonprofit and grant-making organizations.
Key Initiatives:
- Education:
- The KCB Scholarship Programme has supported over 5,000 students, including 1,250 this year. It focuses on high-achieving students from disadvantaged backgrounds, integrating academic and athletic opportunities.
- A 99% high school completion rate and 84% transition to tertiary education highlight its success.
- The programme supports students with disabilities and vulnerable groups, such as survivors of early marriage and FGM.
- Youth Employment & Women Empowerment:
- The 2jiajiri Programme boosts employment and MSME support, benefiting over 700,000 women and promoting youth-run enterprises through business development and access to credit.
- The Young Africa Works Programme, supported by the Mastercard Foundation, prioritizes youth and women entrepreneurs, comprising 70% of beneficiaries.
- Sustainable Agriculture:
- The Mifugo Ni Mali Programme strengthens beef farming, while other initiatives target dairy, honey, and aquaculture value chains to create agribusiness opportunities.
- Technology Integration:
- Digital tools are employed in workforce development and MSME support. For instance, livestock identification and tracking systems improve traceability and management in agriculture.
- Environmental Sustainability:
- The foundation supports renewable energy, providing LPG gas to schools to reduce biomass reliance and collaborating on e-mobility initiatives for sustainable transportation.
- It contributes to the government’s 15-billion tree planting agenda, with a goal of planting one million trees annually, and prioritizes reforestation and afforestation efforts.
Commitment to ESG Goals:
KCB Foundation aligns with 14 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring financial and environmental sustainability in its programs. Its ESG report, externally audited, tracks progress and ensures accountability.
Through community collaboration, the foundation ensures its projects are impactful, sustainable, and environmentally friendly, reinforcing its dedication to both social and environmental well-being.
