Absa Bank Kenya and Vivo Energy Kenya have announced a strategic financing partnership aimed at empowering Shell service station dealers with tailored credit solutions to drive business growth and operational sustainability.

The collaboration provides eligible Vivo Energy Kenya dealers with structured financing to pay land rent in advance and fund the construction of new retail sites. Designed to address the substantial upfront capital typically required to secure long-term lease arrangements, the facility allows operators to lock in strategic locations while preserving working capital for day-to-day liquidity.

With Vivo Energy managing a nationwide network of roughly 350 service stations, the initiative is set to reinforce Kenya’s energy retail infrastructure and support broader mobility sector growth.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director Renato D’souza highlighted the bank’s commitment to supporting local enterprises with targeted financial tools.

“At Absa, we are committed to developing innovative financing solutions that address real business needs and unlock growth opportunities for our customers,” D’souza said. “This partnership enables dealers to secure long-term operating locations, strengthen their businesses, and invest confidently in the future.”

Vivo Energy Kenya Managing Director Peter Murungi noted that bringing Absa on board aligns with the firm’s growth trajectory and market leadership.

“As the company pursues its growth agenda, bringing Absa Bank Kenya on board as a financial partner provides easier access to financing for investment and business development to our dealers and investors,” Murungi stated.

The agreement reflects a shared effort between the two industry leaders to foster entrepreneurship and economic impact across Kenya’s counties. By removing upfront capital hurdles for site acquisition and construction, the initiative aims to benefit landowners, local workforce ecosystems, and surrounding communities.