Absa launch business credit card to boost financing for MSMEs

By Muthoni Wainaina

The State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), in collaboration with Absa Bank Kenya and Visa, has unveiled a new Business Credit Card designed to enhance access to finance for small and medium-sized businesses across the country.

The credit card, launched as a joint initiative between Absa Bank and Visa, is tailored to provide MSMEs with much-needed working capital, flexible repayment plans, secure transactions, and global usability. In addition, the card comes with advanced expense tracking features that enable business owners to better manage their finances and cash flow.

Speaking during the launch event held in Nairobi, on Tuesday, 10 June, 2025, Principal Secretary for MSMEs, Susan Mang’eni, praised the initiative as a timely intervention for a sector that contributes over 40% of Kenya’s GDP and provides employment for millions of Kenyans, particularly women and youth.

Supports bold reforms

“This business credit card supports the bold reforms being undertaken by the Government to create a more enabling environment for MSMEs,” said Mang’eni. “We are ready to co-create programs, support research, and shape policies together with the private sector to drive sustainable growth.”

John Njoroge, the Country Manager for Visa Kenya, highlighted the persistent challenges many small businesses face in accessing financing and adapting to digital technologies. “Through innovation, mindset shifts, and strategic partnerships, we can turn these challenges into real opportunities,” he noted.

Elizabeth Wasunna, the Director of Business Banking at Absa Bank Kenya, emphasized the bank’s continued support for the MSME sector. “Beyond financial empowerment, we aim to be a strategic partner, offering tailored financial solutions, capacity building, and market access through collaborations,” she said.

The launch of the Absa Business Credit Card marks a significant milestone in closing Kenya’s MSME financing gap and strengthening the foundation of the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.