Millions of workers in Kenya’s micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, or MSMEs, could soon enjoy retirement benefits for the first time, thanks to a new partnership between Octagon Africa and Alexforbes.
The collaboration aims to make retirement savings affordable and accessible to businesses that have traditionally been left out of formal pension schemes.
Even companies with as few as three employees can now provide their teams with retirement plans, group life, and medical cover through the Octagon Umbrella Retirement Benefits Scheme.
“This is about giving MSMEs the tools to protect their employees while boosting retention, productivity, and long-term financial security,” Fred Waswa, Group CEO of Octagon Africa, said.
Adding;
“These businesses are the backbone of our economy, yet most lack access to retirement solutions. With Alexforbes, we are changing that reality.”
Many small businesses shy away from offering retirement plans due to high costs and complicated compliance requirements. The new scheme removes these barriers by handling all legal and regulatory processes, allowing employers to focus on running their businesses while their employees save for the future.
“Financial security should not be a privilege reserved for large companies; it is a right for every worker,” Waswa added.
The scheme is supported by digital platforms that simplify management and ensure transparency. Octagon will also offer advisory services and financial literacy programs to help employers and employees make smarter financial decisions throughout their careers.
Alexforbes, South and Central Africa’s leading financial services provider and pension fund administrator, brings more than 90 years of global expertise to the partnership. Craig Bentley, Chief Commercial Officer of Alexforbes Growth Markets, said:
“Through this scheme, we are combining global expertise with local insight. Together, we are delivering retirement solutions that are practical for small businesses, empowering for employees, and sustainable for the economy. Financial well-being should not be a privilege for the few; it must be accessible to all.”
The timing could not be more critical. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, there are more than 7.4 million MSMEs in the country, employing around 15 million people. These businesses contribute more than 40 per cent of Kenya’s GDP and nearly 80 per cent of jobs. Yet over 70 per cent of these enterprises do not offer structured retirement benefits, leaving millions of employees financially vulnerable in later life.
Retirement savings in Kenya are growing, with the Retirement Benefits Authority reporting that the country’s pension fund assets rose to Ksh 2.23 trillion in 2024, up from Sh1.58 trillion in 2021. This partnership promises to extend that growth to a segment of the workforce that has long been ignored.
With Octagon and Alexforbes joining forces, Kenya’s small businesses may soon give their employees the security and peace of mind that comes with planning for the future.
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