• The program, first introduced in 2007 through a partnership between Equity Bank and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), was designed to empower women by providing access to credit and tailored financial support.

As Kenya joined the global observance of International Women’s Day on March 10, 2026, Equity Bank amplified its commitment to women’s economic empowerment with the nationwide rollout of an enhanced Fanikisha Women’s Banking Solution.

The program, first introduced in 2007 through a partnership between Equity Bank and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), was designed to empower women by providing access to credit and tailored financial support.

Since its inception, Fanikisha has disbursed more than KSh 565.6 billion to women-led enterprises nationwide.

Speaking during the celebrations in Kwale County, beneficiary Priscah Wambui shared her journey from unemployment to entrepreneurship. She began with short-stay rental apartments in Diani before expanding into building and construction in Ukunda Town.

Recalling her frustrations with SACCO loans and fragmented services, she said:

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“Equity is now home. After building a credible credit history with Equity Bank’s Ukunda Branch, I secured my first loan of KSh 50,000 and was boarded into Fanikisha.”

The initiative not only provides easier access to affordable credit but also offers vital non-financial support, including skills training, mentorship, and networking opportunities for women entrepreneurs at all stages.

Tailored Loan Products

Shaba is a group-based lending model designed for startups and enterprises operating for less than 12 months, reducing individual risk and collateral requirements.

For businesses that have been running for over a year with turnovers up to KSh 50 million, the Dhahabu product provides targeted support to help them expand.

Almasi caters to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that have been in operation for more than 24 months, offering financing for businesses with turnovers between KSh 51 million and KSh 800 million.

At the top tier, Platini is aimed at large and expanding corporate clients with turnovers exceeding KSh 800 million, providing them with the resources needed to scale further.

This tiered approach addresses long-standing barriers faced by women in business, such as limited access to credit due to lack of collateral or credit history, rigid financing models, and insufficient sector-specific support.

Starting with a roadside kiosk in Ukunda, Anastacia Mghoi has grown into one of the leading fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) distributors in the Coast region. Today, she operates 11 trucks, multiple warehouses, and employs more than 30 people.

Similarly, Susan Nduku, who runs a curio shop targeting tourists in Shimba Hills and Mwaluganje, credits Fanikisha for enabling her and 13 fellow chama members to expand their ventures and build homes.

“Through the bank’s financial literacy training and tailored solutions, we accessed affordable loans for both business and personal development,” said Nduku.

The enhanced Fanikisha package extends beyond loans.

It includes affordable health insurance for women and their families, starting at just KSh 5,800 per year, and the rapid processing of unsecured bid bonds of up to KSh 10 million within one hour.

In addition, beneficiaries gain access to entrepreneurship training courses that build vital business skills, as well as opportunities to explore new markets through regional and international trade missions organized by Equity Bank.

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