I&M Bank takes its ESG push into the supply chain with new SME programme
I&M Bank partnered with the United Nations Global Compact Network Kenya (UNGC Kenya) to unveil a supplier sustainability programme aimed at improving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and their environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices.
The fully funded Supplier Sustainability Capacity Building Programme will provide the bank’s SME suppliers with practical tools and training to identify sustainability gaps, strengthen responsible business practices and respond to growing ESG requirements.
The programme officially launched on August 21, 2026, with a half-day workshop in Nairobi focused on responsible business practices. The event brought together sustainability specialists, business leaders and SME representatives to discuss how stronger ESG practices can help businesses improve resilience and competitiveness.
Following the launch, participating suppliers will take part in a six- to eight-week hybrid training programme led by the UN Global Compact Network Kenya. The sessions will cover social and governance issues as well as environmental sustainability and climate action.
Participants will receive practical resources, including ESG self-assessment tools and improvement roadmaps, designed to help businesses identify areas requiring improvement and progressively align their operations with I&M Bank’s procurement standards and wider sustainability expectations.
I&M Bank Group Chief Financial Officer David Ngata said strengthening supplier capabilities is important to building a more resilient business ecosystem.
“A resilient Bank requires a resilient ecosystem around it. By investing in the sustainability capabilities of our SME suppliers, we are helping businesses strengthen their governance, better manage environmental and social risks, and position themselves for long-term growth.” He added.
The partnership combines I&M Bank’s understanding of its supplier network with UN Global Compact Network Kenya’s expertise in responsible and sustainable business practices. The organizations said the programme is intended to encourage more SMEs to integrate sustainability into their day-to-day operations.
According to UN Global Compact Network Kenya Executive Director Judy Njino, SMEs have a significant role to play in advancing responsible business practices in Kenya, adding that the programme would provide participating businesses with practical knowledge and tools that could improve resilience, competitiveness and access to emerging opportunities.
The initiative forms part of I&M Bank’s broader responsible procurement and sustainability efforts, with the bank seeking to extend ESG practices beyond its internal operations and into its supply chain.
I&M Bank will also issue a Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for eligible vendors interested in participating in the programme.
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