Paul Arithi 
Bernard Kivava,newly appointed Chief Executive Officer,SMEP Microfinance Bank Plc
- SMEP Microfinance Bank Appoints Bernard Mutinda Kivava as New CEO;
SMEP Microfinance Bank PLC has appointed seasoned financial services executive Bernard Mutinda Kivava as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership transition as the institution seeks to accelerate growth, deepen financial inclusion, and strengthen its position in Kenya’s microfinance sector.
The appointment, announced by the Bank’s Board of Directors,took effect on May 18, 2026, and is subject to approval by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).
Mr. Kivava joins SMEP with more than two decades of experience in banking and microfinance, having built a reputation for successfully transforming financial institutions while expanding access to financial services for micro-entrepreneurs, small businesses and rural farming communities across Kenya and the East African region.
His appointment comes at a time when the microfinance industry continues to evolve amid increasing digital transformation, changing customer expectations and growing demand for affordable financing for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Prior to joining SMEP, Mr. Kivava served as the Chief Executive Officer of Juhudi Kilimo, where he spent ten years spearheading one of Kenya’s most notable institutional turnarounds.
Under his leadership, the agricultural finance institution transitioned from a loss-making organization into a profitable enterprise through strategic change management initiatives.
During his tenure, Juhudi Kilimo significantly expanded its national footprint, increased its branch network and more than tripled both its active customer base and loan portfolio, cementing its position as one of the country’s leading agricultural finance institutions.
Before that, Mr. Kivava led Letshego Rwanda Limited as Chief Executive Officer for approximately two and a half years, where he successfully grew the institution’s loan book while improving profitability.
He also oversaw the company’s transition from a credit-only institution into a Deposit Taking Microfinance Institution (DTMFI), introducing operational improvements and aligning products and business processes with the wider Letshego Group standards.
His career in financial services began at Faulu Kenya DTMFI, where he steadily rose through the ranks from Loan Officer to Branch Manager before eventually becoming Head of Business Development.
According to the Board, Mr. Kivava’s extensive leadership experience and proven ability to deliver organizational transformation made him the ideal candidate to steer SMEP into its next phase of growth.
Chairman of the Board, Dr. (H.C.) Nelson C. Kuria, MBS, OGW, F.IoD (K), said the appointment followed a rigorous recruitment process.
“After much prayer and a thorough interview process, we are confident that Bernard possesses the vision, experience and dedication required to lead SMEP Microfinance Bank.
His proven ability to drive growth and execute successful turnarounds aligns perfectly with our mission of transforming lives and meeting our customers’ needs as a Christ-centered microfinance organization in Kenya.We believe he will drive the urgent and much-needed turnaround of SMEP Microfinance Bank.”
SMEP Microfinance Bank expressed confidence that Mr.Kivava’s leadership will usher in a new chapter focused on institutional growth, operational excellence and enhanced customer service.
The Bank, which describes itself as a Christ-centered microfinance institution, has built its business around providing financial solutions to micro,small and medium enterprises,helping entrepreneurs access capital to grow their businesses while contributing to Kenya’s broader economic development.
Industry observers note that Mr. Kivava’s extensive background in agricultural finance, institutional transformation and financial inclusion positions him well to lead SMEP as the banking sector increasingly embraces digital innovation while maintaining a strong focus on serving underserved communities.
With regulatory approval from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK)pending, the appointment signals the Board’s commitment to positioning SMEP Microfinance Bank for long-term sustainability,enhanced competitiveness and greater impact in supporting entrepreneurs and businesses across the country.
