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Bankers Elect Paul Russo as Chairperson of KBA
A new chapter of leadership
Commercial banks have elected KCB Group CEO Paul Russo as the new Chairperson of the Kenya Bankers Association (KBA) https://www.kba.co.ke/, the umbrella body representing Kenya’s banking sector. The election took place during the KBA Annual General Meeting held earlier today.
At the same meeting, the Governing Council re-elected Betty Korir, CEO of Credit Bank, to continue as Vice Chairperson of the Association.
Mr. Russo takes over from John Gachora, Managing Director of NCBA Group, who has led the Association since June 2021.
His appointment comes at a time when the industry is focusing more on expanding access to credit and deepening financial inclusion.
Under his leadership, KBA is expected to advance innovation and support national economic growth.
Bankers Elect Paul Russo as Chairperson of KBA
A vision for growth and inclusion
Mr. Russo has held several senior positions within the banking sector, including KCB Group Director of Regional Business, Group HR Director, and Managing Director at National Bank of Kenya.
He brings nearly 25 years of experience, having worked in top firms such as Barclays (Absa), PwC, EABL, Sidian Bank (formerly K-Rep), and Unga Holdings.
His work in the financial sector earned him the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) state commendation from the President.
He also serves on the UN Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP-FI) Leadership Council, where he works with global peers to embed sustainability into finance.
“It’s an honour to serve the industry in this capacity,” said Mr. Russo. “I thank my counterparts for their confidence and commit to working with all stakeholders to enhance access to financial services and support economic transformation.”
He also paid tribute to his predecessor:
“I sincerely thank Mr. Gachora for his steady leadership through one of the most difficult periods for banking. His guidance helped the sector stay resilient during times of uncertainty.”
Mr. Gachora oversaw the sector’s post-COVID-19 recovery. His leadership included pushing for loan restructurings and moratoriums covering KES 1.7 trillion, fostering foreign exchange market reforms, and supporting collaboration with the Central Bank of Kenya.
During his term, banks pledged KES 150 billion in new MSME loans each year, adopted strong sustainability targets, and launched the Persons with Disabilities Accessibility Project, transforming service delivery across the sector.
“We congratulate Mr. Russo and look forward to working with him to deliver greater industry value and empower the banking public,” said Raimond Molenje, KBA CEO.
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