LONDON, United Kingdom – July 17, 2024 – Paul Russo, EBS, the Chief Executive Officer of KCB Group PLC, has been celebrated for his outstanding leadership and contributions to the financial services sector at the 14th African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA) 2024. This prestigious recognition, presented by the African Leadership Magazine, honors exceptional achievements and contributions in the business sector across Africa.
Paul Russo Receives Award for Exceptional Leadership in African Banking
Paul Russo has been a transformative figure in East African banking, leading KCB Group PLC to remarkable growth. Under his leadership, the bank’s assets have exceeded $12.7 billion, and its market capitalization has surpassed $1.1 billion. Serving over 30 million retail and corporate customers through digital channels and 600 branches, KCB Group operates in Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ethiopia.
Russo’s leadership extends beyond KCB Group, as he serves on the Boards of KCB Group PLC, KCB Bank Kenya, National Bank of Kenya (NBK), KCB Investment Bank, KCB Foundation, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, and Trust Merchant Bank (TMB). He also holds key positions on the Kenya Bankers Association Governing Council, the National Investment Council, the Presidential Taskforce on the establishment of a National Lottery, and the National Steering Committee on Drought Response.
Recognized for his significant contributions to Kenya’s financial services sector, Paul Russo was awarded the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) by the President of Kenya. His efforts have not only supported the growth of KCB Group but also contributed to the socio-economic development of the region, providing innovative banking solutions and fostering financial inclusion.
The African Business Leadership Awards celebrate excellence in leadership, innovation, and impact on the continent’s economic development. These awards highlight individuals, companies, and institutions that demonstrate outstanding corporate practices and leadership in Africa’s business sector, aligning with the magazine’s tradition of showcasing often overlooked aspects of Africa’s businesses and leaders.
The award ceremony was a major highlight of the ALM Africa Summit London 2024, a platform for high-level networking, collaboration, and forming strategic partnerships to address challenges and drive change in Africa. Established in 2016, the summit showcases innovative projects and best practices aligned with the continent’s development goals.
The 2024 edition of the African Leadership Magazine Africa Summit, themed “Africa Unleashed: Navigating Disruptions, Enhancing Opportunities,” provided a strategic platform for leaders to discuss sustainable development pathways. Esteemed speakers and attendees shared valuable insights, experiences, and success stories, further inspiring participants to seek new strategies and partnerships for advancing Africa’s prosperity.
About African Leadership Magazine
The African Leadership Magazine, published by the African Leadership Organization in the UK (Company No. 07435198), presents Africa’s narrative from an authentic perspective to a global audience. Since its launch in August 2008, it has become a leading pan-African publication on leadership, reaching international investors, business executives, policymakers, and multilateral agencies across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the US.
Over 16 years, the magazine has established itself as a trusted partner for African leaders in business, politics, and diplomacy. Through its global events, it has facilitated investments and successful partnerships, promoting Africa-led businesses and fostering collaboration with international stakeholders.
Media Contact:
King Richard Igimoh
Group Editor
African Leadership Magazine
editor@africanleadership.co.uk
For more information visit www.africanleadership.co.uk
