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Hope Advancement Inc. (HOPE) has successfully acquired a controlling 51 percent stake in SMEP Microfinance Bank PLC (SMEP MFB).

CBK announces sale of  microfinance bank to U.S.- based investor for $4.6M | Pulselive Kenya

Denis Mwangi

Hope Advancement Inc. (HOPE) has successfully acquired a controlling 51 percent stake in SMEP Microfinance Bank PLC (SMEP MFB).

In a statement on on November 2, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) said the acquisition, received approval on July 27, 2023, under Section 19(4) of the Microfinance Act and further endorsement by the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury and Economic Planning on August 4, 2023.

HOPE, a wholly owned subsidiary of HOPE International Inc., a charitable organization based in Pennsylvania, USA, was incorporated on November 1, 2011.

The organization serves as the holding company for investments and microfinance activities globally, with notable shares in microfinance institutions like Urwego Bank Plc of Rwanda and Turame Community Finance of Burundi.

SMEP MFB, licensed by CBK on December 14, 2010, and headquartered at SMEP Building, Kirichwa Road, Off Argwings Kodhek Road, Nairobi County, has become a prominent player in the microfinance banking sector.

According to HOPE international, SMEP had an overall portfolio of more than $14 million (Sh2 billion) at the end of 2022.

The institution, previously majority-owned by the National Council of Churches of Kenya with a 71 percent stake, controls a substantial market share of 5.09 percent.

The acquisition is poised to bring about transformative changes for SMEP MFB.

READ: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/business/domestic/cbk-reveals-bank-accounts-with-over-sh100000-as-customer-deposits-rise-to-sh5/7n2q9b4">Number of Kenyan bank accounts with over Sh100K - CBK</a>

The injection of additional capital by HOPE is expected to fuel business expansion initiatives and facilitate the much-needed upgrade of information technology infrastructure.

Furthermore, a reconstitution of the board is set to enhance governance practices within the institution.

This strategic move comes at a time when the microfinance sector is experiencing increased competition and a growing demand for innovative financial solutions.

The partnership between SMEP MFB and HOPE is expected to create synergies that will not only benefit the bank but also contribute to the overall development of the microfinance landscape in Kenya.

Industry experts are closely watching the developments, anticipating a positive ripple effect on SMEP MFB's market positioning and service delivery.

As HOPE takes the reins, stakeholders are optimistic about the bank's ability to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities, ultimately fostering financial inclusion and sustainable growth in the microfinance sector.

READ: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/business/competition-authority-approves-acqusition-of-first-community-bank-by-premier-bank/336m66t">CA approves acquisition of bank founded by Ahmednasir Abdullahi</a>

CBK announces sale of  microfinance bank to U.S.- based investor for $4.6M

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