Absa Bank Kenya will be flying off 36 members of its Business Club for an exclusive 10-day business trip to Estonia and Finland.
According to the bank, the trip, flagged off on Tuesday, February 11, is aimed at unlocking new trade and investment opportunities for Kenyan entrepreneurs.
The initiative, organized in partnership with Golden Connections International, aims to connect Kenyan businesses with their European counterparts, and therefore build meaningful business relationships.
Further, the bank indicated that the 10-day business engagement is scheduled from February 15 to 25, 2025.
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Absa Bank Kenya Explains the Purpose of the Trip
It will bring together participants from key industries such as ICT, manufacturing, healthcare, fintech, and Industry.
Moreover, the trip is expected to offer the entrepreneurs valuable insights into the Estonian and Finnish markets while positioning them for global expansion.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Absa Bank Kenya’s Business Banking Director, Elizabeth Wasunna, underscored the bank’s commitment to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) beyond financial support.
According to her, for businesses to truly thrive, they need more than just financing. They need mentorship, resources, and the right partnerships to access new markets and build global networks that drive success.
“We are committed to making a positive impact on the economy, and we recognize the critical role SMEs play, contributing up to 40% of Kenya’s GDP.
“We are excited to partner with the Estonian Embassy and Golden Connections International to facilitate the travel of 36 SMEs to Estonia and Finland, reaffirming our commitment to providing SMEs with the tools they need to compete on the global stage,” said Wasunna.
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The Trip’s Itinerary
The business delegation will participate in industry-specific seminars, business-to-business (B2B) meetings, and networking sessions with members of the Estonian Chamber of Commerce.
Additionally, the entrepreneurs will explore Estonia’s renowned e-governance system and interact with key industry leaders in the region.
The trip will also feature a visit to Helsinki, Finland, where the delegation will engage with Finnish business leaders and explore potential trade collaborations.
Joel Karubiu, Country Representative, Export Adviser, Trade Development Agency, Enterprise Estonia, explained the significance of the trip in strengthening economic ties between Kenya and Estonia.
“This business trip follows a commitment made during the Estonian Head of State’s visit to Kenya in 2021, in which both nations agreed to strengthen trade partnerships.
“Estonia is globally recognized for its digital innovation and business-friendly policies, making it an ideal entry point for Kenyan businesses looking to expand into the European market,” he said.
Apart from the business engagements, the delegation will also experience cultural exchanges and culinary adventures in Estonia and Finland, building deeper international connections.
The trip is expected to enhance trade, investment, and collaboration between Kenyan and European businesses while strengthening the global footprint of Kenyan enterprises.
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