Co-operative Bank Sponsors International Trade and Logistics Summit 2025, Reinforces Commitment to Regional Trade Facilitation
Lydia-Rono-Director-of-Corporate-and-Institutional-Banking-at-Co-operative-Bank-at-the-International-Trade-and-Logistics-Summit-2025-
Mombasa, Kenya – October 28, 2025: The Co-operative Bank of Kenya has reaffirmed its role as a strategic partner in regional trade and logistics through its sponsorship of the International Trade and Logistics Summit (ITLS) 2025, held on October 27–28 in Shanzu, Mombasa.
The two-day forum, convened by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), brings together key players in the maritime and logistics value chain, including shipping lines, clearing and forwarding agencies, cargo handlers, and government officials. The Summit serves as a platform to deliberate on enhancing efficiency, regional connectivity, and the modernization of the Port of Mombasa — a critical gateway to East and Central Africa.
Speaking during the event, Lydia Rono, Co-operative Bank’s Director of Corporate and Institutional Banking, underscored the Bank’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s maritime and logistics sector as it undergoes transformation.
“The Port of Mombasa is the economic heartbeat of East and Central Africa, serving Kenya and its neighboring countries including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the DRC. At Co-op Bank, we understand the rhythm of maritime trade and the complexity of supply chain finance. Our sponsorship of this Summit reflects our dedication to being a strategic banking partner supporting seamless regional trade,” she said.
Co-op Bank has been at the forefront of providing tailored financial solutions to players in the trade and logistics ecosystem. These include Letters of Credit, bank guarantees, post-import finance, and working capital solutions designed to meet the specific needs of importers, exporters, and logistics firms.
Ms. Rono emphasized that the Bank is “moving beyond conventional banking” by leveraging digital innovation to streamline operations and promote a cashless, paperless port environment, which enhances transparency and reduces transaction times.
With a robust network of over 200 branches across Kenya, including key logistics hubs such as Mombasa, Nairobi, Eldoret, and Nakuru, Co-op Bank continues to strengthen its capacity to serve trade-focused enterprises. Its strong digital infrastructure further positions it as a preferred financial partner for businesses engaged in international commerce.
The ITLS 2025 is expected to foster collaboration on key issues such as port efficiency, supply chain optimization, infrastructure investment, and the growth of the Blue Economy—all areas in which Co-operative Bank is actively investing to empower clients and boost regional competitiveness.
