NAIROBI, Kenya– Absa Bank Kenya has picked former Central Bank of Kenya chairman Mohammed Nyaoga to chair its board from October 1, replacing Charles Muchene, who exits after serving the maximum nine-year term.
Nyaoga, a Senior Counsel with more than 40 years of experience in law, governance, and finance, takes over at a time when the lender is navigating shifts in the financial services landscape.
He has previously chaired the CBK, EcoBank Kenya, and the IMF External Experts Panel in Washington, in addition to serving as chair of the African Development Bank Group’s Disclosure and Access to Information Appeals Panel.
An accredited corporate governance trainer with over two decades of boardroom advisory experience,Nyaoga has been a frequent facilitator at governance forums in the UK and IMF regional programs.
He was also awarded the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) for his contribution to national service.
Muchene, who led Absa through a period of transition marked by growth and resilience, said he was confident the lender is well positioned for its next phase.
“It has been a privilege for me to lead the Bank through a period of change, growth and resilience. I am confident that the Bank is strategically placed to continue its growth trajectory into the future,” he said in his farewell note.
In his acceptance,Nyaoga pledged to steer the lender’s strategic ambitions while reinforcing its long-term sustainability agenda.
“I am honoured to assume the role of Chairman of the Board of Absa Bank Kenya. I look forward to working with fellow Board members and the Management team to advance our strategic priorities and deliver sustainable value to our customers, colleagues, shareholders, and the communities we serve,” he said.
Absa credited Mr. Muchene for his “visionary leadership” and welcomed his successor, noting the handover comes at a period when Kenya’s banking sector continues to adapt to global and regional uncertainties.
