Absa Bank Kenya PLC has announced the appointment of Mohammed Nyaoga, EBS, SC, as the new chairman of its Board of Directors, effective October 1, 2025. He will succeed Charles Muchene, who is retiring after serving his full nine-year term. Mr. Muchene’s tenure officially concludes on September 30, 2025.
The New Chairman: A Profile
Mr. Nyaoga is a highly respected Senior Counsel with over 40 years of experience in legal practice, specializing in corporate finance, civil and commercial litigation, and corporate governance. His extensive leadership background includes serving as Chairman of the Central Bank of Kenya, Chairman of EcoBank Kenya, and Chairman of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) External Experts Panel. Currently, he chairs the African Development Bank Group’s Disclosure and Access to Information Appeals Panel.
Mr. Nyaoga is also a certified director and corporate governance training consultant with more than two decades of experience. He has provided training to boards in Kenya and internationally and has been a regular speaker at governance training series for Central Banking Publications and the IMF. His distinguished service to the country earned him the prestigious Presidential Award of the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS).
Farewell to a Visionary Leader
In a statement, Absa Kenya expressed its gratitude to the outgoing chairman, Mr. Muchene, for his unwavering commitment and visionary leadership. The bank credits him with steering the institution through significant moments, fostering strong business growth, and enhancing its organizational resilience. His leadership has been described as a period of foresight, stability, and purpose, which has transformed Absa into a formidable and sustainable financial institution.
Mr. Muchene congratulated his successor, stating that it was a privilege to lead the bank during a period of change and growth. He expressed confidence in the bank’s future growth trajectory and thanked the board and management for their support throughout his tenure.
Looking Ahead
In his statement, Mr. Nyaoga expressed his honor in assuming the role of Chairman. He thanked the board for their trust and confidence and acknowledged the evolving global, regional, and local financial landscape. He stated his eagerness to work with the board and management to advance the bank’s strategic priorities and deliver sustainable value to customers, colleagues, and shareholders. He also extended his gratitude to Mr. Muchene for setting a strong foundation for future growth.
