Nairobi, Eastleigh traders are stepping up efforts to transform the bustling commercial hub into a more sustainable business environment while also calling for extended banking hours to match their peak trading times.

Speaking at a customer engagement forum with Equity Bank, Eastleigh Business Community Secretary General Omar Ibrahim Hussein said traders are seeking partnerships to advance environmental conservation initiatives in the area.

“We are exploring partnerships in greening Eastleigh and making the environment sustainable. This is vital for the future of our businesses and the community at large,” Omar noted.

He further urged Equity Bank to extend operating hours at its BBS Mall Branch beyond the current 4:30 p.m. closing time, arguing that longer hours would better serve traders during evening business peaks.

“Our partnership with Equity is long-standing. We began with one branch, now we have two, and the bank continues to expand financial inclusion among our people,” Omar added, highlighting that many of the staff serving them are drawn from the local community.

In response, Equity Bank Kenya Managing Director Moses Nyabanda reaffirmed the lender’s commitment to co-creating solutions with traders to support both business growth and sustainability goals.

“Our commitment has always been to walk alongside individuals and businesses, supporting expansion and cross-border opportunities. The request to extend operating hours is under consideration,” Nyabanda said.

He added that Equity is keen to work with community leaders on initiatives in financial literacy, environmental conservation, and sustainability.

The forum, attended by more than 40 business leaders, also discussed how banking services can better align with the evolving needs of Eastleigh entrepreneurs. Nyabanda emphasized Equity’s focus on simplifying banking, reducing transaction frictions, and offering convenient solutions that respect traders’ time.

The Eastleigh engagement is part of a nationwide series of customer forums under the Equity Group’s Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP), which targets key sectors such as agriculture, trade, manufacturing, and sustainability.

Nyabanda was joined by Head of Retail and Branch Business Carol Rutto, North-Eastern Regional General Manager Hassan Maalim, and Head of Business Performance and Strategy Execution Tom Osolo, who echoed his call for deeper collaboration with the Eastleigh business community.