Initiative Targets Working Capital Challenges for Distributors and Retailers
Absa Bank Kenya and Unilever Kenya have launched a Sh4 billion financing programme aimed at easing working capital constraints for distributors and retailers.
The move is expected to strengthen the country’s consumer goods value chain and accelerate the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
More Than 38 Unilever Distributors to Benefit
The financing facility will benefit more than 38 Unilever distributors across the country, as well as retailers and stockists within their distribution networks.
In the first phase of implementation, the partners plan to onboard more than 10 distributors by the end of the year.
Absa’s Wezesha Stock Loan to Improve Access to Business Financing
The programme will be delivered through Absa’s Wezesha Stock Loan financing solution, offering businesses faster and more flexible access to working capital to improve stock availability and expand their operations. The commitment will be reviewed annually.
Absa Bank: Partnership Will Strengthen Kenya’s Distribution Ecosystem
Speaking during the partnership announcement, Absa Bank Kenya Interim Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Yusuf Omari said the initiative builds on the bank’s long-standing support for businesses operating within Kenya’s distribution ecosystem.
“For decades, Absa has walked alongside businesses within Kenya’s stock distribution ecosystem, and we deeply value Unilever Kenya as a long-standing corporate partner in that journey. This next phase of our partnership allows us to expand our collective impact across the value chain by ensuring that distributors and retailers have reliable and timely access to the financing they need to grow. Through Wezesha Stock, we are removing long-standing barriers to capital, enabling businesses to unlock new opportunities and strengthening the entire ecosystem,” said Mr Omari.
Also Read: Unilever Kenya seeks distribution partners for Nairobi CBD operations
How the Wezesha Stock Financing Solution Works
Wezesha Stock is a digital financing platform that enables distributors and retailers to access working capital and stock financing efficiently.
Under the programme, businesses can secure unsecured loans of up to Sh10 million, including Local Purchase Order (LPO) financing, invoice discounting and asset financing. Of this, up to Sh5 million can be disbursed within 48 hours through a fully digitised process.
Unilever Kenya: Financing Will Support Business Growth
Unilever Kenya Managing Director Luck Ochieng said the partnership will enhance the company’s distribution network while supporting the long-term growth of its business partners.
“Our distributors, who serve over 140,000 retailers, are at the heart of our business and play a critical role in ensuring our products reach consumers across the country. This partnership with Absa Bank provides them with access to flexible and timely financing, enabling them to grow sustainably, improve product availability, and better serve their customers. It also reinforces our commitment to building a resilient and inclusive supply chain locally,” said Mr Ochieng.
The initiative is expected to strengthen SMEs operating within Kenya’s consumer goods sector, supporting business resilience, job creation and wider economic activity.
