Ecobank has officially opened a new branch in Nairobi. The New Ecobank Karen branch, the bank's 24th in the country and 10th in Nairobi was officially opened by Finance Minister and Ndia MP Njeru Githae.

The Tobank, which was first introduced in Kenya in mid 2008 says it is still in its quest to have a successful countrywide branch roll out.

Githae commended Ecobank for its relentlessness having entered the market in 2008 when the country was just fresh from the 2008 post election skirmishes that destabilized the economy. He said Ecobank had defied all odds to be where it is today as a rapidly growing bank that aimed to command a big chunk of the Kenyan banking sector through employment of technology and innovative products.

"It is worth noting that from a mere 8 branches in 2008 , Ecobank's  network has grown to now stand at 24 branches countrywide and more than 45 ATM machines," Githae said. The bank has over 300 employees working in different capacities.

Ecobank Managing Director Tony Okpanachi said the bank is committed towards improving the economy of the country by offering products and services that are in line with the dynamic and growing customer needs.

"We have witnessed increasing request for loans of small amounts from our customers hence our decisions to come with the Salary Advance Account which will be used for various purposes including emergencies like paying for medical expenses, school fees and purchase of household goods," He said.

Ecobank opened four branches in 2011. These are Valley Arcade, Upper Hill and Gikomba brances all in Nairobi; and Meru Branch in Meru County.