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SBM Bank Kenya: A mobile-first digital banking strategy takes shape

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With a career spanning multiple continents, Bartesh Shah, the Chief Executive Officer of SBM Bank Kenya brings a wealth of international experience to SBM Bank Kenya.  Known for his passion for innovation, Mr Shah’s strategy revolves around innovation and the creation of a mobile-first approach to digital banking. 
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SBM BANK KENYA: Driving Innovation

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SBM Bank Kenya: A mobile-first digital banking strategy takes shape   With a career spanning multiple continents, Bartesh Shah, the Chief Executive Officer of SBM Bank Kenya brings a wealth of international experience to SBM Bank Kenya.  Known for his passion for innovation, Mr Shah’s strategy revolves around innovation and the creation of a mobile-first approach to digital banking.  His ability to blend global best practices with local insights has been a driving force behind the bank’s renewed vigour. He talked to Business Insights Africa about his plans to make SBM Bank the most preffered financial partner for retail, SME and institutional customers. Excerpts   How has digitalization impacted the bank’s business? Digitalization has transformed SBM Bank, enhancing efficiency, accessibility, and customer experience. Our Mfukoni mobile and internet banking platform has expanded to include services such as ITAX, eCitizen payments, and Platinum Saver account management, ensuring seamless banking for our customers. . SBM  bank gained recognition for The  ‘Digital Banking Innovation of the Year’ Award by the FDI Insider Awards, which serves as a testament to delivering quality banking experience to our customers By automating banking processes, we have improved operational efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced transaction security. We also use data-driven insights to personalize customer experiences and provide tailored banking solutions. Additionally, our robust cybersecurity measures protect customer transactions, ensuring trust and reliability. On the security front, digitalization has improved our ability to manage risks, with advanced cybersecurity measures ensuring safe transactions and protecting sensitive data.   Briefly touch on key performance indicators Our key performance indicators (KPIs) are designed to capture the full scope of our performance in the banking sector, especially in a challenging business environment. Customer growth is a fundamental metric, and we’ve seen a steady increase in both individual and corporate clients, which reflects the trust we’ve built over time. Deposit growth has been another area of focus, where we’ve maintained strong inflows despite economic pressures, demonstrating the resilience of our business model.   Profitability is a critical KPI, and SBM Bank has remained consistently profitable, even during periods of market volatility. This robust performance is a testament to our effective risk management strategies and our ability to adapt to shifting market conditions. Additionally, we track customer satisfaction metrics to ensure we are delivering exceptional service and value, which has remained strong due to our focus on personalized banking and customer-centric solutions. We also monitor the rate of digital adoption, as more customers embrace our mobile and online banking platforms. This shift has been crucial for expanding our reach and ensuring that customers in remote or underserved areas can access our services. Lastly, we closely drive the impact of our initiatives targeting SMEs, youth, and women-led businesses. The success of these programs, reflected in the increased number of successful businesses and clients served affirms our commitment to driving economic inclusion.   As an experienced hand in banking, where do you want to take SBM Bank? My vision is for SBM Bank to become the preferred financial partner, offering innovative banking solutions and fostering economic growth. Our strategic location along the Indian Ocean rim positions us as a key player in cross-border trade finance. We are committed to digital transformation, customer-centric solutions, and sustainable banking practices.  Our corporate responsibility initiatives include environmental conservation, where we have conducted tree planting and turtle conservation initiatives. We also undertake gender equality and youth empowerment programs, ensuring a positive societal impact. As SBM, we aim to expand our reach, strengthen our digital capabilities, and continue supporting key sectors such as agriculture, service, health, manufacturing, hospitality and many more.  We also appreciate that customers need a trusted banking partner in their financial journey and we offer reliable payments solutions to drive their growth as individuals, institutions or communities. Our payment solutions span across different channels, namely; Mfukoni, Bulk Payments and international remittance and this ensures efficient transactions for various payment needs. We believe in empowering our customers with solutions that transcend mere functionality. Our payment services are more than just tools—they are enablers of success, growth, and financial freedom. Whether you are an individual managing everyday transactions, an SME scaling operations, or a corporate entity expanding internationally, SBM Bank aspires to be your trusted payments partner every step of the way to enable you experience seamless payments and limitless possibilities with SBM Bank.   What kind of impact have you made as a bank? SBM Bank has played a pivotal role in enhancing financial accessibility, supporting business growth, and promoting economic development. Our tailored financial solutions, structured credit services, and commitment to sustainability have strengthened the banking sector. We continue to invest in financial literacy, entrepreneurship support, and community development initiatives. Our vision is to redefine banking by making it more accessible, innovative, and inclusive, driving long-term prosperity in Kenya. What’s SBM Bank’s outlook? Looking ahead, we would like our legacy to be defined by the transformative impact we’ve had on Kenya’s financial sector—making banking more accessible, innovative, and inclusive. Our strategy is focused on sustainable growth, continuous innovation, and deep community engagement, ensuring that SBM Bank Kenya remains a trusted partner in shaping the country’s economic future.              
“We continue to innovate our banking solutions for the retail, corporate and SME sectors to ensure relevance and responsiveness in our banking solutions,” says Mr Shah By Amos Wachira With a career spanning multiple continents, Bartesh Shah brings a wealth of international experience to SBM Bank Kenya. His ability to blend...
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IPT Africa’s selection reinforces Mauritius’ emergence as a fintech and digital finance hub

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IPT Africa (www.IPTAfrica.com), a purpose-driven leader in the B2B global cross-border payments sector, is proud to announce its selection into the prestigious Visa Accelerator Program - Africa 2025, becoming the first Mauritian company to join this highly competitive, pan-African fintech cohort. Chosen from thousands of high-growth startups across the continent, IPT Africa now joins an elite group of...
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Radisson Blu named “Africa’s Leading Hotel Brand” for the fourth consecutive year

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adisson Blu has once again secured top honors at the World Travel Awards Africa, taking the title of “Africa’s Leading Hotel Brand” for 2025. This win marks the fourth consecutive year the upperupscale brand has claimed the region’s most prestigious hospitality award, reinforcing its position as an industry leader across the continent. At the same ceremony, Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) properties picked up 14 more trophies, led by Africa’s Leading Conference Hotel for Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali and swept country awards in Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Kenya, Mali, Niger, Rwanda, and Senegal. A heritage of design, service, and growth The Group’s journey began in 1960 with the opening of the world’s first designer hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark. That hotel, now the Radisson Collection Royal Hotel, Copenhagen, is still operating successfully. Since then, Radisson Hotel Group has expanded to ten distinctive brands, with Radisson Blu at its core. In Africa, the Group entered in 2000 with the opening of Radisson Blu Hotel, Waterfront in Cape Town. which has now transitioned to Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town. Accelerating across Africa Over the past fifteen months, the Group has signed eleven hotels and opened seven, bringing its African portfolio to 100 hotels in more than 30 countries and cementing its status as the continent’s most active international operator. Radisson Blu continues to drive much of that momentum, from Casablanca to Cape Town. Recent highlights include the opening of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Conakry, just three months after signing, as well as new signings, including the Radisson Blu Hotel & Apartments, Yaoundé. Scheduled to open by the end of 2026, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Kinshasa is opening late 2026 “Our teams live and breathe purposeful hospitality, and this award shows how consistently they deliver,” says Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia Pacific at Radisson Hotel Group. “Winning four years in a row isn’t luck. It reflects a clear strategy, strong local partnerships, and a brand culture that turns every stay into a memorable moment. We’re already the most diverse hotel company on the continent, operating in more than 30 African countries, and we’re just getting started. Africa sits at the heart of our growth plans, and guests can expect even more thoughtfully designed Radisson Blu hotels to open their doors soon.” Looking ahead Across its ten brands, Radisson Hotel Group, is on track to reaching 150 hotels by 2030 in Africa and will continue to pair global standards with genuine local insight.
Radisson Blu has once again secured top honors at the World Travel Awards Africa, taking the title of “Africa’s Leading Hotel Brand” for 2025. This win marks the fourth consecutive year the upper upscale brand has claimed the region’s most prestigious hospitality award, reinforcing its position as an industry leader across the continent. At the same ceremony,...
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Bimas Microfinance Impact Stories: From Water Scarcity to Prosperity

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Felicio Fundi is a young, dedicated farmer residing in Rianjeru village, Mbeti South, Embu County. He is a loving husband and also a proud father of one. Felicio bears the essential responsibility of providing for his family, and he achieves this through a diverse array of agricultural pursuits, including dairy farming, pawpaw cultivation, and banana farming. In the semi-arid region of Rianjeru, clean water is scarce. The community depends on the "Rupingazi Rweru" water project, funded by the World Bank, but water is only available on specific days. During dry seasons, residents often go an entire week without any water. Felicio and his young family faced significant challenges, struggling to secure enough water for their crops, livestock, and daily needs. They often stayed up all night collecting and storing water when it's accessible, leaving them vulnerable to bandits and troublemakers who exploit the darkness. This situation made life difficult and dangerous for them. This predicament weighed heavily on Felicio, as it began to slow down his ability to manage the day-to-day activities on his farm. At times, he resorted to hiring a water tanker, which came at a steep cost of Ksh 3,000 for 6,000 liters of water, necessitating five deliveries in a month. This was not only financially burdensome but also unsustainable in the long run. Felicio yearned for a lasting and secure water solution for his family. Fortunately, Felicio was a member of BIMAS Microfinance, where he had been tapping into loans to support his farming endeavors. In March 2021, he received news that BIMAS was offering financing for water tanks to its customers. This was a golden opportunity for him to finally experience an abundance of water in his home. With the support of BIMAS, Felicio secured a loan of Ksh 78,000, enabling him to purchase and install a substantial 10,000-liter water tank on his property. The transformation was worth it. The family was no longer at the mercy of dry seasons; they now had a reliable and ample water supply for both their domestic needs and farming activities. Felicio's family life took a turn for the better. He radiated happiness as a father and husband. With their newfound water security, the family harbors ambitious plans to expand their farming enterprise. They even own another farm situated near a river, and BIMAS's support extends to financing the purchase of a water pump for this venture. In Felicio's own words, he joyfully exclaims, "I can now farm with confidence throughout the year. My small-scale farming business has thrived since partnering with BIMAS. We are no longer constrained, and our lives are no longer endangered during the night. We can rest early and wake up refreshed to tend to our farming." Felicio’s success story highlights BIMAS Microfinance's commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 6 by ensuring sustainable water management. By financing water tanks and pumps, BIMAS tackles water scarcity in semi-arid regions like Rianjeru, enhancing farmers' quality of life and promoting sustainable agriculture. This support boosts both economic and social well-being in the community, demonstrating a commitment to improving water access and management.
Felicio Fundi is a young, dedicated farmer residing in Rianjeru village, Mbeti South, Embu County. He is a loving husband and also a proud father of one. Felicio bears the essential responsibility of providing for his family, and he achieves this through a diverse array of agricultural pursuits, including dairy farming, pawpaw cultivation, and banana farming.
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Bimas Microfinance Impact Stories: GIVING BRIGHT FUTURES TODAY

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Meet Teresia, a resilient woman from Kiamuringa village in Gachoka location, Embu County who has defied adversity to secure a brighter future for her family. With five children to care for, Teresia took on the role of the family's sole provider, juggling various income streams from poultry and miraa farming to brick manufacturing. Her determination knew no bounds as she aspired to become a landlady in her community. In Kiamuringa, a semi-arid region, clean water was once a distant dream. Villagers had to trek two kilometers in search of boreholes, which often ran dry. To ensure her children's access to water, Teresia's young ones would wake up at 4 am daily to avoid the long queues, forcing Teresia's children to rise before dawn, braving long queues, their education hanging by a thread. Moreover, the exposed boreholes posed health risks due to waterborne diseases.  Frustrated by this situation, Teresia turned to BIMAS microfinance. She had been a loyal member for years, securing loans to nurture her miraa, poultry, and brick businesses. She recognized that hens, miraa, and brickmaking all demanded copious amounts of water for success. In January 2021, a ray of hope emerged as Teresia learnt that BIMAS was offering financing for water tanks to its customers. She seized this opportunity and secured a Ksh 27,000 loan to purchase and install a 4,000-liter water tank in her home. Additionally, BIMAS assisted her in acquiring a water pump worth Ksh 50,000. These investments proved to be game-changers, allowing her to operate her businesses seamlessly even during dry seasons. Today, Teresia's life has undergone an admirable transformation. She is not only a content mother but also a generous neighbor who shares her reservoir's abundance with the community. Her children's education has significantly improved as they can now focus on their studies without the burden of water-fetching. Furthermore, access to clean water has enhanced their health and overall well-being. Teresia's entrepreneurial spirit has thrived with BIMAS's support, leading to the establishment of a rental business on her property. Her success story is a proof to how access to clean water can unlock opportunities and improve lives. With a radiant smile, she expresses her gratitude, saying, "BIMAS has brought joy into my life, and I am delighted to see my neighbors benefit as well. I eagerly look forward to securing financing for another 6,000-liter water tank for my rental premises." Teresia's journey to water prosperity is an inspiration to us all.
Meet Teresia, a resilient woman from Kiamuringa village in Gachoka location, Embu County who has defied adversity to secure a brighter future for her family. With five children to care for, Teresia took on the role of the family's sole provider, juggling various income streams from poultry and miraa farming to brick manufacturing. Her determination knew no...
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Bimas Microfinance Impact Stories: Making Clean Water A Reality For Everyone

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Dennis Ngari, a resident of Rianjeru village in Embu County, faced significant challenges due to water scarcity in the semi-arid region. The community depended on a World Bank-funded water project, which often ran dry during the harsh dry seasons. As the sole breadwinner, Dennis struggled to provide enough water for his farm and his family's needs, forcing him to make long trips on his boda-boda to fetch water from distant sources. His farm, located near a river, had to compete with other farmers for the limited water supply, leaving his family in a constant struggle. In February 2021, Dennis found a lifeline through BIMAS microfinance. He received a loan of Ksh 42,000 to buy and install a 6,000-liter water tank at his home. This loan transformed his life. With a reliable water supply, Dennis's farm flourished, and his boda-boda business stabilized. The constant access to water allowed him to tend to his crops year-round, even during the dry seasons. Now, Dennis and his family are planning to expand their business, aiming for another loan to purchase a 10,000-liter tank to ensure an ample water supply for their growing farm. Grateful for the support, Dennis says, "BIMAS came to my rescue when I was about to give up on farming. Now, I can farm in all seasons without worrying if the rivers run dry. My farming business has flourished since joining hands with BIMAS. We can nurture our farm day or night, rain or shine." Dennis's story is a shining example of the positive impact BIMAS has had on his life and his family's future.
Dennis Ngari, a resident of Rianjeru village in Embu County, faced significant challenges due to water scarcity in the semi-arid region. The community depended on a World Bank-funded water project, which often ran dry during the harsh dry seasons. As the sole breadwinner, Dennis struggled to provide enough water for his farm and his family's needs, forcing...
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Bimas Microfinance Impact Stories: Christine’s Journey With BIMAS

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Christine Gakii is a BIMAS customer from Mukothima, Tharaka North, Tharaka Nithi County. Her journey with BIMAS Microfinance began in 2014, after her life had taken a dramatic turn. Family disputes had stripped her of everything, leaving her in a state of despair. Just when all seemed lost, a trusted friend guided her towards BIMAS Microfinance. Her journey with BIMAS began with a modest loan of Ksh 30,000, which she invested in her dream of starting a cereal farm. Through hard work and perseverance, she repaid her loans faithfully and steadily climbed the loan tiers. Her farm flourished, expanding across multiple plots of land. With courage, she ventured into a new frontier: a pork butchery with a small kitchenette. Her determination paid off, and the business thrived. Seeing her dedication, BIMAS went further, helping her acquire a motorbike to transport her products more efficiently. As her pork business grew, the daily slaughtering of pigs demanded more water. Recognizing her relentless commitment, BIMAS provided funding for a water tank and an energy saving Jiko for her kitchenette. Christine's journey is truly inspiring. Despite facing many challenges, she has risen above them all. Now, she owns a thriving pork butchery, employs many people, and has become a successful landowner and farmer. She even owns three motorbikes. Christine dreams of building rental houses on one of her best pieces of land, which is close to an institute. With BIMAS ready to help, her dream is on its way to becoming a reality. She proudly refers to BIMAS Microfinance as her "father and mother," underscoring the profound impact it has had on her life. In a heartfelt message, she encourages those facing hardships not to turn to stress-induced drinking, but to seek support from BIMAS. She says, "At BIMAS, help is available for everyone." Christine's journey with BIMAS Microfinance exemplifies women empowerment and promotes multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Through initial funding and continuous support, BIMAS enabled her to break the cycle of poverty and establish a thriving business in cereal farming and pork butchery, enhancing food security in her community. By nurturing her entrepreneurship, BIMAS promotes gender equality and economic empowerment. Moreover, Christine's enterprise generates employment opportunities and sustains livelihoods. The provision of a water tank further ensures operational efficiency and supports her overall well-being. 
By Catherine Mukami Christine Gakii is a BIMAS customer from Mukothima, Tharaka North, Tharaka Nithi County. Her journey with BIMAS Microfinance began in 2014, after her life had taken a dramatic turn. Family disputes had stripped her of everything, leaving her in a state of despair. Just when all seemed lost, a trusted friend...
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Bimas Kenya: Champions of Financial Inclusion

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Champions of Financial Inclusion
For millions of Kenyans living on less than two US dollars a day, financial shocks such as illness, funeral expenses, livestock deaths, or crop failures can tip them or their families below the poverty line.  While the traditional microfinance model provides financial tools to create buffers against such setbacks, there’s no “one size fits...
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Q&A: Dalmus Mbai positioning Safer Power as a cornerstone for Green Hydrogen in Kenya

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By Amos Wachira In the industrial hub of Athi River, Machakos County, a quiet revolution is brewing. It doesn't rumble like a diesel generator nor flicker like a kerosene lamp. Its potential energy is stored in invisible molecules, harnessed from one of nature's abundant natural gifts: hydrogen. This is the frontier where Safer Power, a homegrown green energy company, is staking its claim, betting big on green hydrogen to redefine the nation's energy security and industrial future. Founded in 2016, Safer Power is a fully registered and licensed Engineering Procurement and Contracting firm dealing with key projects like Solar, power and energy projects and medium to big size HVAC projects. As the world shifts toward clean energy to combat climate change, green hydrogen, a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based energy, has emerged as a game-changer; and Safer Power is among the early proponents of this revolution in Africa. "We looked at why green hydrogen was not peaking in Europe and America," explains Dalmus Mbai, founder and Chief Executive at Safer Power Group. "The cost of production of green hydrogen should be low. With large tracts of land where we can harness the power of the sun to produce hydrogen, Africa stands at a unique position as it can produce green Hydrogen cheaply." Safer Power, a renowned name in Solar energy is dreaming and actualizing a future that will harness the power of Hydrogen. What is Green Hydrogen Hydrogen itself is nothing new. It’s the universe’s most abundant element. The crucial differentiator is how it’s produced. "Grey" hydrogen, the dominant form today, is extracted from natural gas, releasing vast amounts of CO2. "Blue" hydrogen captures some of that CO2, but it's still fossil-fuel dependent. Green hydrogen, however, is produced by splitting water (H2O) into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity generated entirely from renewable sources – solar, wind, hydro, or geothermal. The only emission? Pure oxygen. For decades, Kenya's energy narrative has been a complex tapestry woven with threads of hydropower vulnerability, geothermal promise, and the persistent shadow of expensive, polluting fossil fuels, especially for heavy industry and transport. While significant strides have been made in renewable electricity generation with geothermal and wind leading the charge, decarbonizing sectors like steel, cement, fertilizer production, and long-haul transport remains a colossal challenge. Enter green hydrogen – not just as a global buzzword, but as a tangible solution being forged on Kenyan soil by Safer Power. Led by a Kenyan team combining deep industrial expertise with international energy acumen, Safer Power emerged not just to import a technology, but to indigenize it. Their vision is audacious: to make Kenya a leader in green hydrogen production and utilization within Africa, driving decarbonization, enhancing energy security, and creating high-value jobs. Kenya imports millions of dollars worth of fossil fuels every year. This drains foreign exchange, exposes the country to volatile global prices, and pollutes the environment. "Green hydrogen, produced using our own sun offers a pathway to true energy sovereignty. It’s not just about being green; it’s about being economically resilient and industrially competitive,"explains Mbai during an interview at their headquarters. Safer Power is moving beyond vision into concrete action. They are actively developing a commercial-scale green Hydrogen production facility. Safer Power’s primary focus is in sectors where green energy can make a big economic impact. With Green Hydrogen, Safer Power will be exploring derivatives for cleaner industrial heating and reliable backup power solutions beyond diesel generators. They will also play a significant role in providing clean feedstock for fertilizer production through the use of green ammonia. Mr Mbai says green Hydrogen could bring endless possibilities, like use of hydrogen fuel cell to power electric trucks, buses, and potentially locomotives for long-distance freight for the first time in Kenya. Notably, the transport industry is a known major source of emissions and particulate pollution. "Green Hydrogen has three pronged benefits: It gives us power, hot water and green Ammonia which is made from a combination of nitrogen and oxygen. This green ammonia could be used in our farms to preserve our soils." For any trailblazer, building an ecosystem is one of the most crucial part of the journey as it helps them forge a sustainable way forward. Safer Power understands that pioneering requires more than just production. They are actively engaging in technology partnerships, collaborating with global green Hydrogen players and engineering firms, but with a strong focus on knowledge transfer and local capacity building. Top on their priority list are partnerships with Hydrogen fuel cell manufacturers. "Most people who were not feasible for renewable energy can now be supported using fuel cells on site and generation of green Hydrogen off-site." Another key cog in their Green Energy wheels is Off-taker Agreements. Mr Mbai says the company is actively securing commitments from forward-thinking Kenyan industries eager to decarbonize their operations and secure stable, long-term energy savings. These include their customers who have already installed solar systems. Understanding the power of collaboration, Safer Power works closely with government agencies like the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) and the Ministry of Energy to shape regulations, safety standards, and incentives for green Hydrogen. The company believes a Green Hydrogen future is within reach and Kenya is ripe for it. This is why it invests in training programs to cultivate the next generation of Kenyan hydrogen engineers, technicians, and safety experts. Safer Power's inroads into green hydrogen comes after years of preparation, concept building, testing and future-proofing. For a start, the company had to install capacity in fabricating electrical components that were previously imported into the country, including switchboards, control and synchronization panels, motor control panels, meter boards, distribution boards, generator synchronization panels, battery racks, street lighting poles, high mast street light poles. "We have a sheet metal factory and a panel building and assembly workshop that is fully licensed by Schneider Electric where we assemble our own control panels and related components," says the Safer Power founder. For many years, Safer Power has build it's name in Solar energy, supplying energy solutions including solar panels, inverters and batteries to a diverse domestic and industrial clientele. Recently, the company has morphed into an integrated Solar energy plant installer with a number of big photovoltaic projects under their belt. These include an innovative 800kWp Photovoltaic system for Del Monte Kenya, and a Solar Photovoltaic plant with energy storage system of 100kWp and a 630A Low Voltage Board with a 80kVa capacity for Kingston Beach Hotel. They have also completed and commissioned energy projects at Konza City, EPZA, Ghana High Commission, Kenya Ports Authority, Stoni Athi Resort, CBK Pension towers among others. Having helped companies and industries go green, the next frontier for Safer Power heralds a new exciting chapter. The odds are already favoring their green hydrogen aspirations. Firstly, Kenya's potential as a green hydrogen powerhouse is exceptional. Blessed with some of the world's highest solar irradiance, Kenya boasts a clean electricity potential poised for massive exploration and expansion. Secondly, the country 's strategic location is a positive factor. Positioned as an East African hub and gateway, Kenya can serve both domestic demand and potentially export green hydrogen derivatives like ammonia or synthetic fuels to regional and international markets. Safer Power looks to harness this advantage to supply the country and it's neighbors with green hydrogen and its derivatives. The policy momentum only asserts the fact that the country is ready to explore the prospects of Green Hydrogen and Safer Power will be among the frontrunners to realize this dream, according to Mr Mbai. The Kenyan government's commitment to clean energy, evidenced by ambitious targets in the Green Hydrogen Strategy and Roadmap 2023q creates a supportive, though evolving, regulatory landscape. The implications of Safer Power’s mission extend far beyond the production of a clean fuel. Establishing a green hydrogen industry creates high-skill jobs in engineering, manufacturing, plant operation, and logistics. It attracts significant foreign direct investment aligned with global decarbonization trends. Local manufacturing of components creates jobs. "We are bridging the renewable energy gap by bringing affordable solutions closer to our people," says Mr Mbai. Safer Power will be manufacturing most components needed for Green Hydrogen cutting down on imports." Navigating the hurdles The path Safer Power treads is not without significant hurdles. It's paved with high initial costs. Green Hydrogen plants, components and associated infrastructure for storage and transportation require massive upfront capital investment. Kenya currently lacks a dedicated hydrogen transport and distribution network. Building this requires coordinated effort between government and private players. Fortunately, Safer Power has figured out a way of transporting the gas. "We will use hydrogen tanks of 10kgs and 1000kgs to transport Hydrogen. 1 kg of Hydrogen can produce up to 30kW of power." While supportive, the regulatory framework for hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and safety is still nascent in Kenya and across much of Africa. Clarity and certainty are vital for investors. Building reliable domestic demand from industries while simultaneously exploring export opportunities requires careful market development and competitive pricing, a road that Safer Power is already exploring. Safer Power acknowledges these challenges head-on. "The technology costs are coming down rapidly globally, and our renewable advantages give us a competitive edge. We are working tirelessly with all stakeholders – government, financiers, off-takers, communities – to build the enabling environment." Safer Power’s journey is being watched closely, not just in Kenya, but across the continent. Africa holds immense potential to become a global green hydrogen powerhouse, leveraging its unparalleled solar and wind resources to produce clean fuel for domestic use and export, fueling sustainable industrialization. Safer Power is demonstrating that this isn't just a distant dream for Kenya but a viable strategy being implemented by Africans, for Africa. Their success could catalyze a wave of similar initiatives, positioning Kenya and the wider continent at the forefront of the next global energy transition. It’s about capturing the value of Hydrogen as a storable, versatile fuel that can power factories, move goods, and fertilize crops – all without poisoning the air. Imagine a future where factories are powered by green Hydrogen, where trucks transporting goods from Mombasa to Kampala emit only water vapour. Where fertilizer for Kenyan farms is produced using green ammonia, free from the carbon footprint of imported variants. Where industrial zones hum with activity powered by the sun and captured in hydrogen molecules. This is the future Safer Power is diligently building. They are more than an energy company. They are architects of a new industrial paradigm for Kenya. By harnessing the nation's abundant renewable gifts through the alchemy of green hydrogen, Safer Power isn't just generating a clean fuel but igniting a beacon of sustainable innovation. Safer Power proves that Kenya is not a mere power consumer, but a leader in the global clean energy economy. The green hydrogen flame is rising in Kenya, and Safer Power is holding the torch.
Business Insights Africa sat down with Dalmus Mbai, founder and CEO, safer Power Group. Excerpts. Safer Power has been a leader in renewable energy solutions in Kenya, primarily solar and battery storage. Now, you're announcing a major leap into green hydrogen production. Why this shift?   It’s not so much a...
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