Sidian Bank has doubled down on its commitment to Kenya’s cooperative movement, announcing a Sh2 million sponsorship for the upcoming Teachers’ Sacco Leaders’ Summit. The move cements the lender’s strategy to be the financial partner of choice for the country’s powerful Sacco ecosystem.

The 5th Annual Leaders' Summit, organized by the Kenya Teachers Sacco Association (KETSA), is set to take place in Kisumu from February 23 to 27, 2026. The event will bring together the leadership of 45 teacher-based Saccos to strategize on "Economic Resurgence through Strategy and Innovation." Sidian Bank’s sponsorship is not just a donation; it is a strategic alignment with one of the most liquid and organized sectors of the Kenyan economy.

Strategic Alignment

Speaking at the cheque handover, Sidian Bank CEO Chege Thumbi described the partnership as a catalyst for mutual growth"Strategic partnerships with SACCOs play a key role in accelerating our growth," Thumbi noted. "We are keen on building strong alliances within communities that present greater opportunities for expansion and shared success."

• Innovation Focus: The summit will explore how Saccos can leverage technology to compete with commercial banks and fintechs. Sidian Bank, known for its digital-first approach, aims to be the infrastructure provider for this transformation.
• Governance Excellence: KETSA Chairman Robert Njue emphasized that the collaboration is vital for strengthening governance structures, ensuring that members' funds are managed with the highest integrity.

The sponsorship underscores a broader trend of commercial banks courting Saccos, not as competitors, but as institutional clients. By funding this high-level dialogue, Sidian Bank is positioning itself at the center of the conversation about the future of cooperative finance in Kenya.

A Platform for Growth

For the teachers' Saccos, the summit in Kisumu is a critical moment to chart the path forward in a challenging economic environment. With Sidian Bank’s backing, the event promises to deliver actionable insights that could redefine how these institutions serve their millions of members across the nation.