Equity Bank Kenya Ltd team of managers paid a courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor on Wednesday 1st September, 2021 to discuss a wide range of mutual successes between the two institutions. Key among them was Equity Bank’s robust drive to transform the country out of ramifications of deforestation and pollution occasioned by piled pressure and high dependency on wood fuel.
Weighing in on the matter, Equity Bank’s Director of Energy Mr. Erick Naivasha stated that the only way for survival of institutions was to cut down on utility costs as well as conserve the environment.
“Over 20 billion shillings worth of wood energy goes up in smoke in all learning institutions in Kenya every year. We have embarked on a rigorous programme aimed at reversing this trend and so far, we have donated over 7 million trees to universities, TVET colleges and basic education institutions across the country,” he said. Early this year, the Bank donated 5,000 seedlings to Kibabii University.
The visit comes at a time when the University is gearing towards 100% transition to green energy. So far, the University uses solar energy for security lighting including the street lights at the newly constructed Sports Complex. Also, out of a course in Renewable Energy offered in the University, many students’ projects are under incubation and shall go a long way in providing solutions to the University, the country and the region. To this end, Mr. Naivasha pledged to conduct an energy audit in the institution towards providing a lasting project that shall contain the usage. He also brought to fore a water management project as apriority area that shall support the University’s agenda.
The Vice Chancellor welcomed the partnership and reiterated the University’s speedy engagement in realizing the partnership.
The meeting was also attended by the Regional Manager of Equity Bank Mr. George Onyino, Director of Education Services Mr. Benson Munene and the Bungoma Branch Manager Mr. Stephen Wasiche among other officers.
