Choice Microfinance Bank celebrated two major milestones today : its 10-year anniversary and the official launch of its new Riverside branch in Nairobi. The launch was a bold statement of intent about the bank’s future directions, reflecting a decade of transformation and a vision firmly rooted in innovation, inclusivity, and community impact.
Hosted in the serene Riverside Square, the event brought together a dynamic mix of banking executives, regulators, investors, diaspora partners, MSMEs, youth leaders, and fintech stakeholders. The atmosphere was charged with pride and possibility as Choice Bank showcased its journey from humble beginnings to a digitally anchored, nationwide financial partner.
A decade of Impact
Speaking during the event, Boniface Ombui, CEO of Choice Bank gave an inspiring reflection on the Bank’s growth. “This is not just a building. It’s a symbol of who we are and where we’re headed. Over the last 10 years, Choice has evolved from a micro-lender for the diaspora to a fully licensed microfinance bank with a national footprint and a pan-African vision,” he said.
He highlighted the bank’s work in empowering youth, SMEs, and underserved communities across the country, stating, “We are not just giving loans. We are financing livelihoods, dignity, and progress. That is our brand promise and our moral obligation.”
A Vision Backed by Bold Leadership
The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Kiprono Kittony, Chair of the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), who praised the bank’s strategic revolution and forward thinking leadership. “You are not merely filling a gap, you’re bridging divides and unlocking potential. This is what the future of microfinance in Kenya must look like,” he said.
Mr. Kittony challenged the bank to maintain its momentum, strengthen governance structures, and consider exploring new capital markets such as listing on the NSE. He alsp underscored the role Choice Bank could play in areas such as affordable housing, EV financing, and green lending.
The new Riverside branch nestled in one of Nairobi’s fast-growing commercial hubs represents a modern shift in service delivery, tech enabled, youth-led and deeply personalized. The branch offers embedded banking services for fintechs and Saccos, cross-border trade support for diaspora and local businesses, and dedicated to solutions for MSME’s.
One stand out innovation is the bank’s EV financing program, which reflects its commitment to green growth and digital transformation. The institution has also adopted a youth- empowered culture, with over 95% of its staff under 35, reinforcing its belief in building capacity from within.
As Choice Bank embarks on its second decade, it remains grounded in its mission: to be the most inclusive and impactful financial partner for Kenya’s growth sectors.
With the Riverside branch now officially open, the bank is poised to scale its impact through digital platforms, strategic partnerships, and customized financial products that meet the real needs of Kenyans across social classes and geographies. The event concluded with symbolic ribbon-cutting, energizing speeches, and a clear message to the market: Choice Bank is shaping the future of microfinance, one purpose-driven move at a time.
