NAIROBI — Absa Bank Kenya has appointed Senior Counsel Mohammed Nyaoga as the new chairman of its board of directors, marking a significant change in the lender’s leadership. He will take over on October 1, 2025.
Mr Nyaoga, one of Kenya’s most respected legal minds, succeeds Charles Muchene, who steps down after nine years on the board, including a long stint as chairman. The bank praised Mr Muchene’s tenure, describing it as a period defined by “foresight, stability and purpose.”
In his farewell remarks, Mr Muchene struck a reflective tone. “It has been a privilege for me to lead the bank through a period of change, growth and resilience,” he said. “Together, we achieved significant progress in our strategic ambitions while staying true to our purpose of empowering Africa’s tomorrow.”
Mr Nyaoga brings more than four decades of legal practice and governance experience. He has previously chaired the Central Bank of Kenya and Ecobank Kenya, as well as serving on the International Monetary Fund’s external experts panel in Washington.
Currently, he heads the African Development Bank Group’s Disclosure and Access to Information Appeals Panel. He also holds the state honour of Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear, one of Kenya’s highest civilian awards.
Speaking after his appointment, Mr Nyaoga expressed gratitude and pledged to carry forward the institution’s momentum. “I am honoured to be entrusted with this role and will build on the solid foundation laid by my predecessor,” he said.
His arrival comes at a time of rising competition in Kenya’s banking sector, with lenders balancing profitability against pressure from new taxes and a slowing economy. Analysts say strong governance will remain crucial as banks navigate shifting regulations and customer expectations.
Mr Nyaoga officially assumes office on October 1, 2025.
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