ABSA Bank Hosts Rift Valley Wezesha Biashara Forum in Eldoret, Promotes Business Growth and Digital Solutions
ABSA Bank Kenya PLC today hosted the **Rift Valley Wezesha Biashara Forum** at Eka Hotel in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. The forum brought together key stakeholders in the agricultural, SME, and business sectors to discuss ways of fostering economic growth, business development, and the adoption of digital solutions in the region.
**Elizabeth Wasunna-Ochwa**, Business Banking Director at ABSA, emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting the region’s thriving agricultural sector and business community. She highlighted the importance of providing holistic financial solutions and advice to farmers, SMEs, and entrepreneurs.
“We are proud to be here today in Uasin Gishu, an area known for its agricultural significance. We are not just here to talk about banking; we are here to have a comprehensive conversation about how we can support farmers and the business community in making well-informed decisions for sustainable growth,” Wasunna-Ochwa said. “We also thank the Uasin Gishu County government for creating a conducive environment for us to work in.”
**Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii** also addressed attendees, noting that the forum was part of ABSA’s broader program aimed at promoting businesses and empowering local entrepreneurs. He spoke on the importance of diversifying the economy and embracing new opportunities, particularly in the digital space.
“We are here as part of ABSA’s initiative to promote business and training, as well as provide loans to the business community,” said Governor Bii. “Eldoret is one of the fastest-growing cities in Kenya, and we want to encourage our business community to think about a 24-hour economy. The county government is committed to providing a conducive working environment for businesses to thrive.”
Governor Bii also focused on youth empowerment, pointing out that 62% of Kenya’s population is under the age of 35, with many eager to engage in digital solutions. He urged young people to seize these opportunities to venture into digital business.
“Our young people are increasingly looking for digital solutions. As a county, we want to encourage them to embrace these opportunities. We are also committed to lowering levies and fees, especially for sectors like boda boda and taxi operators, to make it easier for young people to save and budget effectively,” Bii added. “Additionally, we have enhanced the distribution of fertilizers to farmers, ensuring they have timely access to essential inputs for better yields.”
**Uasin Gishu Woman Representative Gladys Boss Sholei** also took the opportunity to commend ABSA Bank for its efforts to support business growth in the region. She shared details of her program, which is supported by ABSA, aimed at empowering women athletes and equipping them with the financial skills needed for a successful transition into business after their sports careers.
“I am grateful to ABSA for partnering with me in empowering women athletes. Through this program, we have 50 women athletes who are being trained on financial wellness, ways to protect themselves against gender-based violence, and how to invest wisely,” Sholei explained. “Sports careers are short-lived, and it’s important that these women have the tools and knowledge to transition into other forms of business when their athletic careers end. This partnership is helping them plan for their future beyond the sports arena.”
The Wezesha Biashara Forum served as a platform for businesses to network, learn from experts, and explore new avenues for growth. It also provided a space for collaboration between the private sector, government, and local communities to drive economic transformation in Uasin Gishu and the broader Rift Valley region.
As the forum concluded, both public and private sector leaders expressed their commitment to continuing efforts that will help Uasin Gishu maintain its position as a hub for innovation, business, and agriculture in Kenya. The collaboration between ABSA Bank, the county government, and local stakeholders is expected to yield long-term benefits for the region’s economy and its people.
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