File image of new I&M Bank Kenya CEO Abdi Mohamed.

I&M Bank Kenya has appointed Abdi Mohamed as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective October 5, 2026, following regulatory approval by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).

Mohamed takes over at a time when the bank is pursuing growth, digital transformation and stronger customer engagement in the competitive Kenyan banking sector.

He joins I&M Bank from Absa Bank Kenya, where he served as Country CEO and Managing Director, overseeing the lender’s growth and transformation.

Mohamed brings more than three decades of experience in banking, financial services and corporate leadership. His appointment is expected to strengthen I&M Bank’s strategic leadership as it seeks to expand its customer base and sustain growth.

I&M Group Executive Director Sarit Raja Shah said Mohamed’s banking experience, leadership credentials and understanding of the Kenyan and regional financial services sector would be important in guiding the bank through its next phase of growth.

Mohamed said he was honoured to join an institution with a strong heritage and deep customer relationships, pledging to work with employees, customers and partners to build on the bank’s achievements.

“I look forward to working closely with the team, our customers and our partners as we build on the Bank’s achievements and pursue the opportunities ahead,” Mohamed said.

Before joining I&M Bank, Mohamed held senior leadership positions at Absa and has established a reputation in the financial services industry.

Beyond his executive roles, he is the Chairperson of the UN Global Compact Network Kenya and serves on the Kenya Bankers Association Governing Council. He is also a board member of Integrated Payment Services Limited (IPSL) and Touch Health.

Following Mohamed’s appointment, Kihara Maina, who had been serving as interim CEO, resumes his position as Regional CEO of I&M Group.

I&M Bank said the leadership transition comes as it continues to invest in innovation, digital banking and customer experience.

The lender, a Tier 1 commercial bank headquartered in Kenya, has operated for more than five decades and offers corporate, business and personal financial services.