United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has pledged KES 20.5 billion (USD 150 million) to Kenya’s Roads Levy Securitisation Programme, a $1.35 billion infrastructure initiative led by the Kenya Roads Board.
The programme is designed to modernise key transport corridors, fast-track contractor payments, and enhance national connectivity.
UBA Group Managing Director and CEO Oliver Alawuba announced the commitment during a high-level visit to President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, reaffirming the bank’s long-term investment strategy in Kenya.
“Infrastructure is the engine of trade, competitiveness and shared prosperity,” said Alawuba. “UBA is proud to be one of the largest financiers of this programme, demonstrating our unshakeable confidence in Kenya’s future.”
Strategic Engagements with Government and Regulators
The UBA delegation—comprising Sola Yomi-Ajayi, CEO of UBA Africa, and Mary Mulili, CEO of UBA Kenya—held strategic meetings with senior government officials and financial regulators to reinforce the bank’s role in Kenya’s economic transformation.
During talks with Central Bank Governor Dr. Kamau Thugge, discussions focused on strengthening financial sector resilience, enhancing cross-border payments innovation, and supporting a well-capitalised banking ecosystem.
“UBA has the financial capacity and expertise to support the regulator’s agenda for a sound, competitive banking system,” Alawuba noted.
In a separate meeting with Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Davis Chirchir, UBA’s financing pledge was formally aligned with the government’s infrastructure rollout priorities.
𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚’𝐬 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
As Africa’s global bank, we believe that Africa’s growth story is written on the roads we build, the businesses we empower, and the opportunities we unlock. Kenya… pic.twitter.com/9CWr1jeKT1
— UBA Group (@UBAGroup) September 10, 2025
Supporting SMEs and Regional Trade Integration
President Ruto commended UBA for its consistent support of Kenya’s development agenda, particularly in infrastructure and SME financing. The bank’s strategic focus aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) goals.
“Kenya holds a strategic place in Africa’s growth story, and UBA is committed to being a long-term partner in unlocking the immense potential here,” said Alawuba. “From financing critical infrastructure to empowering SMEs that drive job creation, our mission is to deliver sustainable solutions that connect markets, foster trade, and improve lives.”
With SMEs accounting for over 80% of employment in Kenya, UBA is rolling out tailored financing products to boost entrepreneurship and expand access to capital.
“Our participation cements UBA’s role as a trusted ally to the Kenyan government, businesses, and communities,” said Mary Mulili. “We are paving the way for better connectivity that empowers farmers, manufacturers, and SMEs across the country.”
Advancing Pan-African Growth and Interconnectivity
Alawuba also met with Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi to discuss the role of African-led enterprises in driving innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth. Both parties emphasised the importance of robust partnerships to advance regional infrastructure and interconnectivity.
“These engagements reaffirm UBA’s commitment to collaborate with governments and stakeholders in building a prosperous, united, and self-reliant Africa,” Alawuba said.
UBA’s activities in Kenya reflect its broader pan-African strategy to position the country as a key hub for East African trade, investment, and digital finance.
