Kenya: Online banking forces 7 Barclays branches to shutdown

Barclays Bank of Kenya (BBK) has announced plans to close seven of its branches in Kenya. (Image Credit: www.moneybright.co.uk)

Barclays has announced plans to shut down seven Bank of Kenya (BBK) branches due to an uptake in mobile, online and alternative channels used by customers. The company has been investing in automation and digitisation programs to further meet customers demands.

According to the bank, the affected branches include Moi Avenue Branch, Haile Selassie Branch, Waiyaki way Branch, Kawangware Branch, Ruhimtulla Branch, Nakumatt Meru Branch and Wundanyi Branch in Voi.

The seven branches will be closed beginning October 1, as the bank’s optimisation exercise that seeks to review its efficiency in line with the changing needs of customers.

BBK Managing Director Jeremy Awori says staff will be redeployed based on available opportunities and matching competency skills.

Barclays last month rolled out a voluntary early retirement scheme it said would affect about 130 staff, but it was not clear whether the number includes those working in the affected branches.

Staff Writer