Charting a sustainable future in the creative economy : Insights from the KCB leadership center

June 24, 2024 28 32

Icon Radio’s Wanjira Maganjo engages in an in-depth conversation with Rosalind Gichuru on the intersection of finance, sustainability, and the creative economy.

” As the Group Director for Marketing and Communications at KCB, I see myself as the chief custodian of our brand, which has been around for 127 years. KCB is all about people and ensuring we do better for all our stakeholders—internally, with customers, and within our community “Rosalind says.

(*KCB group director of marketing and communications , Rosalind Gichuru ,together with Wanjira Maganjo at the KCB leadership center in Karen during the KCB creatives round table.*)

She continued, “The creative economy is a significant driver of our national economy. Considering the median age of our population and the abundant talents among our youth, we realize the importance of focusing on this segment. KCB serves everyone, and it makes perfect sense for us to develop products and services tailored to the creative economy and the youth. Today, we are here with representatives from various sub-segments of the creative economy to understand their needs and figure out how to structure solutions—not just products—that matter to them.”

Addressing the broader theme of sustainability, Gichuru elaborated on KCB’s efforts over the past 17 years. “We have supported about 14 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our initiatives include water projects, gender equality, and climate change. For example, we aim to have 25% of our loan book green by 2026, supporting customers in integrating green solutions into their businesses. Through the FLME proposition, we also support women in business, ensuring gender equality not just in our workforce but at the leadership level as well.”

Gichuru emphasized the integration of sustainability in KCB’s operations. “Today is about mindset shifts, context, and perspective. We want to take what we learn here and co-create meaningful solutions to help build sustainable businesses for the future. Our core mission is to be here for people and for better, and we intend to continue this legacy for many more decades.”

Discussing financial literacy for the creative industry, Gichuru highlighted KCB’s existing initiatives. “Through our Tujiajiri platform, we support youth entrepreneurship with capacity building, business incubation, and market access. We collaborate with like-minded partners to provide opportunities for the practical application of learned skills.”

On the challenge of securing local funding, Gichuru responded, “While KCB doesn’t currently provide grants, partnerships and collaboration are at the heart of what we do. For example, we have funding available for women in business through our FLME proposition We’re committed to listening, innovating, and applying our expertise to address the needs of young entrepreneurs.”

*(Rosalind Gichuru, KCB Group director of marketing and communication, delivering a speech at the creatives round table held in Karen.)*

The event underscored the necessity of continuous dialogue around sustainability. “Thank you so much for your time and for inviting us to this important conversation,” concluded Gichuru. “Sustainability requires ongoing discussions, and we are eager to continue engaging with the community.”

The session at the KCB Leadership Center highlighted the importance of integrating financial solutions with sustainability efforts, particularly in supporting the creative economy and fostering future leaders equipped with the knowledge and resources to drive green innovation.

Compiled by,

ELIZABETH MAINA.