Barclays vows to remain in Kenya, opens new branch

Barclays Bank has expressed confidence in the growth of business in Kenya and said it is here to stay.

This follows a recent announcement by the bank’s parent company, Barclays PLC, to scale down operations in Africa.

While launching a new branch in Nyali, Mombasa, Mr Vimal Kumar, the Africa chief distribution officer, expressed gratitude to Kenyan customers saying they were the largest in Africa.

“Kenyan business is our strongest franchise in Africa. We are proud of the way it has been growing over the years; the leadership that we have on the ground and, most importantly, the set of highly loyal customer base. The pride that we have with the business here is unmatched,” he added.

He assured customers that the bank would not close down. “Your business with us is something we value most. We will make sure that we continue to invest and grow businesses in Kenya.

With digital banking becoming very important, the bank has launched the next generation ATMs which help customers make bill payments, deposit cash and reduce wastage of time at long queues,” he said.

Mr Kumar added: “We continue to invest and we have launched the next generation ATMs, which give you freedom for your day-to-day activities. You will visit the branches only if you need advisory help”.

The bank’s retail and business banking director, Mr Zahid Mustafa, said they had put up a world class bank. “For any business, it is important to listen to customers; to change one’s flexibility to meet their needs. We did not have a premier centre in Mombasa and we are glad to open this one today. This is our 122nd branch in Kenya. We believe there will be more,” Mr Mustafa said.

He said the “premier” section would be of the same standard as the one in Nairobi and other places.

“Barclays is here to provide you with options in the way you want to bank. We will serve you the way you want to be served. The bank will provide a one-stop contact point with customers,” Mr Mustafa said.

He said the bank was structured differently from its parent company, Barclays PLC, and would continue with operations in Kenya.

“The way we are structured, we are not actually owned by Barclays PLC. Barclays Kenya is owned by Barclays Africa Group, which in turn is mainly owned by Barclays PLC.

A change in shareholding does not impact on our focus and commitment to the continent,” Mr Mustafa added.

Customer Network Director James Muchiri said: “We have a huge footprint in Kenya. In this region we have over 14 outlets. The bank is here to serve you as you grow and move your business and country forward”.