Habil Olaka, who has led the Kenya Bankers Association (KBA) for 14 years, has stepped down as CEO effective March 31, 2024.
The KBA Governing Council announced Raimond Molenje as acting CEO, effective April 1, while they search for a permanent replacement.
John Gachora, KBA Governing Council Chairman, acknowledged Olaka’s exceptional leadership and the significant milestones achieved under his guidance.
“Under Olaka’s leadership, KBA has continued to reinforce a reputable and professional banking sector that best supports Kenyans, who entrust their ambitions and hard-earned resources with its member banks,” KBA Governing Council Chairman and NCBA Bank Group Managing Director John Gachora said.
During his tenure, Olaka is credited with:
- Strengthening the KBA’s reputation and promoting a professional banking sector.
- Championing industry advocacy initiatives like the Sustainable Finance Initiative (SFI) that led to Kenya issuing the first Green Bond in East Africa.
- Guiding member banks in mitigating the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Playing a key role in developing PesaLink, a real-time payment system and a more efficient cheque processing system.
“It has been an honour to lead and transform KBA into a formidable financial sector advocacy group over the last 13 years, and I wish to thank the KBA, Governing Council, member banks, and the Central Bank of Kenya leadership over the period, stakeholders, and KBA staff for their support,” Habil Olaka said.
Mr. Molenje joined KBA in 2018 and has 19 years of experience in legal and regulatory practice, human capital, and policy advocacy, having held senior management roles in leading business member organizations for ten years.
