Kenya to Host EBRD Africa Hub, Support MSMEs, Green Plan

In a landmark development, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is set to establish its African continental office in Nairobi, Kenya.

This follows high-level discussions between President William Ruto and EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso during the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development held in Seville, Spain.

The move marks a strategic boost to Kenya’s economic positioning, particularly in strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and enhancing Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), which are key pillars of Kenya’s economic growth strategy.

The ratification of the EBRD’s establishment in Kenya is already before Parliament and is expected to be finalized on Tuesday.

President Ruto in a statement said, “We value our growing partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and welcome the bank's decision to establish an African office in Nairobi.” He noted. “This is a strategic move that will enhance support for micro, small and medium enterprises, and promote public-private partnerships as key drivers of economic growth.”

President Ruto and President Renaud-Basso also agreed on a comprehensive engagement strategy that includes support for climate financing, the promotion of green investments, and the organization of a major investor conference in Nairobi later this year.

The EBRD further reaffirmed its alignment with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), signaling a commitment to long-term, structured economic engagement in the country.

This partnership is expected to unlock significant financing opportunities and provide essential backing to local enterprises, particularly in the renewable energy and sustainability sectors.

The decision to host the EBRD’s Africa office in Nairobi reinforces Kenya’s growing role as a financial and diplomatic hub in the region. It also reflects global confidence in Kenya’s reform agenda and economic potential.