Over the past few years, we have witnessed the evolution of ESG (environmental, social and governance) matters and their impact on businesses in Kenya firsthand, particularly in how ESG principles influence lending decisions. How that trajectory will be impacted by the new direction the United States is taking, essentially extinguishing any reference to DEI, climate change, and “woke” issues, remains to be seen. ESG will continue to be significant to Kenya and the region since climate change is real, and in Europe, where many DFIs are headquartered, environmental, social and governance issues remain relevant.
The Growing Role of ESG in Finance
Kenya’s ESG journey dates to 2008 when former President Mwai Kibaki launched Vision 2030. This ambitious blueprint aimed to transform Kenya into a middle-income, newly industrialised nation while prioritising sustainable development. In our experience the financial sector in Kenya is no longer just incorporating ESG principles—it is actively enforcing them. A recent transaction we handled linked interest rates directly to a company’s social and diversity metrics, clearly showing that sustainability can be a key determinant in access to capital
A defining moment in Kenya’s financial landscape was the introduction of ESG-linked loan conditions. In a recent financing transaction involving a major telecommunications company, the interest rate structure was directly tied to the company’s adherence to specific social and diversity metrics. If the company fails to meet these targets within the agreed timeframe, it will face a significant increase in loan pricing.
Legal Developments and Carbon Markets
One of the most significant regulatory advancements in Kenya’s ESG landscape has been the introduction of the Climate Change (Carbon Markets) Regulations in May 2024. These regulations provide much-needed clarity on governance, institutional frameworks, and the procedural requirements for developing carbon projects in Kenya. Importantly, they align with the Climate Change (Amendment) Act, 2023, ensuring that carbon credit projects operate within a structured legal environment.
A parallel milestone was the announcement of Africa’s first REDD+ carbon registry in Kenya, expected to be operational by mid-2025. This registry will facilitate lifecycle tracking of REDD+ carbon credits, mitigating risks of greenwashing and bolstering Kenya’s position as a key player in the global carbon market.
The Green Bond Revolution
Kenya’s foray into green finance took a major step forward in 2016 with the establishment of the Kenya Green Bond Programme, backed by the Kenya Bankers Association, Nairobi Securities Exchange, Climate Bonds Initiative, and FSD Africa. The programme facilitated the issuance of the first Kenyan shilling-denominated green bond on the London Stock Exchange, a landmark achievement for sustainable finance in East Africa.
One of the most notable green bond successes in Kenya was the KES 5.7 billion (approx. USD 43.9 million) issuance by Acorn Holdings Limited, which was fully repaid ahead of its November 2024 maturity date. The funds enabled the development of environmentally friendly accommodation for 5,000 university students in Nairobi. This success underscores the viability of green bonds as a financing tool for low-carbon, resource-efficient projects.
Regionally, green finance is gaining momentum. In neighbouring Tanzania, the Tanga UWASA Water Infrastructure Green Bond was oversubscribed by 103 percent, raising TZS 53.12 billion (approx. USD 19.3 million). This funding will expand clean water access for 6,000 households while supporting environmental conservation efforts.
Unlocking Green Investments Through New Initiatives
In November 2024, Kenya launched the County Green Investment Facility, to bridge financial gaps that hinder green projects. Fully funded by FSD Kenya, the initiative will support 10 counties in developing 50 bankable green projects. PwC Kenya is spearheading due diligence and investment proposal development, ensuring that each project is matched with suitable financial instruments, from private equity and development finance institutions to bonds and grants.
Projects under consideration include a 20-megawatt solar farm in Makueni, an eco-tea factory in Nandi Hills, and solar farms in Laikipia. These initiatives are set to redefine Kenya’s renewable energy landscape, driving both economic and environmental benefits.
A complementary development is the launch of the Dhamana Guarantee Company in 2024. Backed by the Private Infrastructure Development Group, Cardano Development, FSD Africa, CPF Financial Services, and the African Development Bank, Dhamana addresses a critical gap in green finance: the lack of local currency guarantees for inclusive green investments. With an initial funding pool of USD 14.3 million, the facility aims to scale up to USD 20 million, unlocking sustainable investment potential.
The Financial Sector’s Commitment to ESG
The banking sector has emerged as a key driver of ESG integration in Kenya. In November 2024, the Kenya Bankers Association published the Landscape of Sustainable Finance in Kenya’s Banking Industry report, revealing the following key insights:
- 93% of surveyed banks are committed to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- 80% actively monitor macroeconomic impacts on their performance.
- 87% have credit policies ensuring responsible and sustainable lending.
- 67% support economic inclusion for minority groups, including persons with disabilities, women, youth, and indigenous communities.
This commitment reflects the broader financial sector’s recognition that sustainable investments are ethical imperatives, critical to long-term profitability and resilience.
Challenges and Global Influences
Kenya’s ESG advancements are unfolding against a complex global backdrop. The country through President William Ruto has been vocal about the need for a new climate financing mechanism that addresses the unique needs of developing nations. In a recent letter to The Economist, he urged increased financing for least-developed countries. However, global ESG policies remain in flux, particularly considering shifting priorities in the United States. The impact of these changes on Development Finance Institutions policies in Africa remains uncertain, though it is unlikely that ESG considerations will be abandoned.
Locally, the enforcement of ESG-related legal frameworks is becoming more robust. In December 2024, Kenya’s Supreme Court upheld a KES 1.3 billion (approx. USD 10 million) award to individuals affected by lead poisoning caused by the Metal Refinery EPZ in Mombasa. The ruling set a powerful precedent for corporate accountability, emphasising the necessity of environmental compliance in industrial operations.
The Path Ahead
Kenya has significantly progressed in embedding ESG principles across its financial, legal, and investment landscapes. With robust regulatory frameworks, increasing corporate accountability, and a growing appetite for green finance, the country is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable development within Africa.
As ESG frameworks continue to evolve, the next frontier for Kenya will be scaling up sustainable investments to address climate change, resource efficiency, and social equity.
--
Read the original publication at ALN
