Centum, linked to Kirubi family, exits Sidian Bank after 25 years with final stake sale

Centum Investment Company, the Nairobi-based investment firm associated with the family of late Kenyan tycoon Chris Kirubi, has exited Sidian Bank after selling its final stake in the lender, ending a 25-year investment.

The company confirmed it completed the transaction through Bakki Holdco Limited, an investment vehicle that owned 27.2% of Sidian Bank.

Centum held 50% of Bakki Holdco, translating to an effective 13.6% interest in the fast-growing Kenyan bank. The sale closes one of the firm’s longest-standing financial services investments.

Centum ends long-running banking investment
Centum backed Sidian Bank for more than two decades as the lender expanded its presence in Kenya’s small and medium-sized enterprise lending market.

During that period, the bank broadened its reach among retail and SME customers while strengthening its position in Kenya’s competitive banking sector.

Centum’s exit reflects a broader effort by the investment firm to rebalance its portfolio and redeploy capital into new opportunities across East Africa.

Kirubi family’s enduring investment legacy
The divestment also highlights the legacy of Chris Kirubi, one of Kenya’s most influential businessmen. Kirubi, who died in 2021 at the age of 80, built a diversified business empire spanning banking, manufacturing, real estate and investments.

His holdings included stakes in companies such as KCB Group, Haco Industries, and Bendor Estate Limited, alongside his flagship investment vehicle Centum. Following his death, his children Robert Kirubi and Mary-Ann Musangi inherited roughly 80% of his estimated $176 million estate, ensuring the family remains central to the group’s investment strategy.

Centum reshapes East Africa investment portfolio
With the Sidian Bank stake sale completed, Centum is expected to redeploy capital into new growth sectors across East Africa’s rapidly evolving economy.

The firm maintains a diversified investment portfolio spanning real estate, Private equity, consumer goods, financial services, and agribusiness. Energy Centum has historically pursued long-term investments in high-growth sectors, positioning itself as one of the region’s most influential investment firms.

The latest divestment signals a new phase in the company’s strategy as it continues reshaping its portfolio across East Africa.