Entrepreneurs and other stakeholders on Wednesday got an opportunity to explore varied business prospects available for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Coast region courtesy of Absa Bank Kenya.

The forum is a part of Absa Business Club engagements and enables SMEs to learn about latest industry trends, financial solutions, and networking chances for long-term growth.

The forum in Mombasa also expands engagements with SMEs by according them the knowledge and networks they require to navigate the fast-changing business landscape.

Mombasa County, which heavily relies on tourism, accounted for 4.9 per cent of Kenya’s GDP in 2023, according to Kenya National Bureau of Statistics' Gross County Product Report.

Each of the other coastal counties - Kilifi, Kwale, Tana River, Lamu and Taita Taveta - contribute an average of 4.5 per cent, according to the 2023 Gross County Product Report.

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Absa Bank Kenya Chief Finance Officer Yusuf Omari, who was speaking during the Mombasa forum, says the bank is keen to enable SMEs realise their goals and scale their businesses.

“We are not just here to offer financial support, but to encourage businesses to grow wholesomely through different solutions such as strategic networking and capacity building forums,” Omari said.

Absa Bank Kenya has planned similar forums in Mt Kenya, Western and Rift Valley regions for its business club members to access markets, sustainable finance, information, coaching and mentorship.