FNB awarded as the SME Bank of the Year
FIRST National Bank’s (FNB) strategy for the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector is underpinned by numerous initiatives to support businesses throughout all life stages. As a result, the institution has been awarded as the SME Bank of the Year at the Global SME Finance Forum Virtual awards ceremony. FNB Zambia Chief Executive Officer, Bydon Longwe, said increasing presence in local markets further increased the bank’s ability to provide contextual solutions to businesses. “This would further contribute to addressing the challenges faced by the country such as unemployment, empowerment and economic growth,” Mr Longwe said in a statement. Meanwhile, the global award has cemented FNB’s place as a world class bank and the commitment for FNB to provide world class solutions. FNB Chief Executive Officer – South Africa, Jacques Celliers, said the bank was aware that the SME sector remained a glimmer of hope in helping countries create jobs and promote inclusive economic development. Mr Celliers said this was being done as FNB continued facing unprecedented economic challenges, coupled with the impact of Covid-19. “We are humbled to receive global recognition as this showcases that the work, we are doing for our SME customers is truly adding value. SMEs are important drivers of economic activity, across all corners of society and are often referred to as the ‘backbone’ of economies,” he said. The Global SME Finance Awards 2020 which are endorsed by the G20’s Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) were organised by IFC, a member of the World Bank Group and the SME Finance Forum. FNB was recognised amongst over 100 global participants for its digital innovation, exceptional products and services, as well as the unique and solution-focused manner it approaches challenges facing SMEs as they incubate, start, run and grow their businesses. The awards were judged by a committee of industry experts, with specific focus on reach, uniqueness and innovation, effectiveness and impact, as well as dynamism and scalability.