NCBA brought together more than 100 of its commercial banking clients on Wednesday for a forum centred on how entrepreneurs can safeguard their businesses against growing risks in Kenya’s economic landscape.

The gathering, themed Future-Proofing Business Amid Emerging Risks, drew participants from manufacturing, agribusiness, ICT, trade, and real estate.

It focused on threats such as cybercrime, fraud, employee liability, and the effects of climate change, which continue to weigh heavily on business operations.

According to the Communication Authority of Kenya, 2025 has already seen 4.5 billion cyberthreats flagged, with advisories issued on the urgency of strengthening cybersecurity measures.

The authority noted that a single cyber breach can run into millions of shillings, jeopardising both operations and customer trust.

At the same time, climate shocks are estimated to wipe out between 3 and 5 per cent of Kenya’s GDP every year, disrupting agriculture, trade, and infrastructure.

Speaking at the event, Samuel Odhiambo, Managing Director of NCBA Bancassurance Intermediary Ltd, explained the bank’s broader approach to helping businesses navigate an increasingly complex environment.

“We recognise that our customers expect more than financial support to run their businesses,” Odhiambo stated.

“By integrating our banking and insurance solutions and supporting them to embed these solutions into their operations, we are helping them mitigate future risks and unlock sustainable growth.”

Discussions during the session highlighted practical strategies for resilience.

Panellists highlighted the importance of integrated banking and insurance solutions in mitigating business shocks.

Among the examples presented was the Go Insure digital platform, which enables customers to buy and manage policies digitally.

Other solutions featured included Cyber Edge Insurance to cover losses from ransomware or cyberattacks, fraud and management risk policies, and employee benefits packages designed to strengthen workforce security and retention.

The breakfast forum underscored NCBA’s effort to reinforce long-term relationships with its business clients by offering more than just credit facilities.

Instead, the bank positioned itself as a partner committed to guiding enterprises through risks while helping them prepare for growth.