Equity retirement assets rise above Sh900mn

Equity retirement assets rise above Sh900mn
Equity Group CEO Dr James Mwangi

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 20 – Two retirement schemes managed by Equity Life Assurance have grown their combined assets to more than Sh900 million, reflecting rising interest among Kenyans in saving for retirement.

The Individual Savings and Retirement Plan recorded the biggest growth, with assets under management increasing from Sh313 million at the end of 2024 to Sh796 million by June 30, 2026.

The scheme, which had 408 members at the end of 2025, delivered a 13.6 percent net return during the year.

The Equity Income Drawdown Fund also recorded steady growth, with assets rising from Sh44 million at the end of 2024 to Sh104 million by December 2025 before reaching Sh109 million in June 2026. The fund returned 13.8 percent in 2025.

Equity Life Assurance Managing Director and Principal Officer Angela Okinda said the increase in assets and membership shows that more Kenyans are embracing retirement planning.

“The continued growth in assets and membership is a clear signal of growing confidence in this Plan as a serious, credible vehicle for individual retirement planning in Kenya.”

She said the two products are designed to help members maintain financial stability after leaving formal employment.

“The Income Drawdown Fund and Individual Savings and Retirement Plan are a natural extension of that promise, ensuring members continue to enjoy financial security after formal employment.”

Corporate Trustee Anthony Kilavi said favourable economic conditions helped the schemes deliver returns above the industry average and expressed optimism about their performance in 2026.

The growth comes as Kenya continues to encourage pension savings to improve financial security in retirement, particularly as inflation, rising life expectancy and economic uncertainty increase pressure on household finances.