In a survey conducted by Brand Africa in conjunction with the Gina Din Group, Safaricom/M-Pesa has emerged as the most admired brand in Kenya, placing the company ahead of leading global brands such as Coca-Cola and Samsung, which are second and third, respectively.

Market Dominance in Kenya

Among Kenyan brands, the top three in brand strength are Safaricom/M-Pesa, Tusker, and Equity Bank. Safaricom/M-Pesa has led the way in commanding influence within the telcos and mobile money spheres. The role of the brand in the molding process of the country's digital economy cannot be slighted on either count, thus making it a household name and a synonym for innovation across Kenya.

Equity Bank Leads Financial Services

The most admired brand in the financial services sector is Equity Bank, followed closely by KCB and the Co-operative Bank of Kenya. These Nairobi Security Exchange-listed banks are big players in Kenya's financial landscape and for long have played a major role in providing stability to the country's economy.

The Survey: A Pan-African Perspective

The survey carried out by GeoPoll, on behalf of Brand Africa and the Gina Din Group sampled 30 countries that represent more than 85% of Africa's population and GDP. While a high 56 percent of Kenyans believe in African brands, only 26 percent remain loyal to them, reflecting strong penchant for international names.

Foreign Brands Dominate Key Categories

Foreign brands still lead in different categories in Kenya. The most preferred car brand is Toyota, followed by Honda, then Mercedes Benz. For electronics and computers, Samsung features first on the list, followed by Apple and then Tecno. In the technology category, Google, a USA-based company, is in the lead, closely followed by Microsoft and then Jumia.

In the sports and fitness category, global giants Nike, Adidas, and Puma hold sway as the favorites. In personal care, Nivea leads, with Softcare and Nice & Lovely, homegrown brands, which are the second and third favorites, respectively. Naivas is the most admired retail brand, with Kilimall and Sarit in its wake.

Global Brands Lead in Kenya's Top 100

The top 100 most admired brands in Kenya are international, with European brands leading at 30%, African brands recording 26%, North American brands at 22%, and Asian brands making 20%. Oceania has a mere 2% contribution to the rankings.

Kenya: A Beacon of Hope for Africa

Kenyans ranked their country first in a new category to determine the most admired country contributing towards a better Africa. South Africa, the USA, Rwanda, and Tanzania complete the list.

Brands Making a Positive Impact

Safaricom/M-Pesa is rated among the most admired brands for making positive contributions toward the improvement of society, the environment, and people.

Expert Views On Survey Results

Thebe Ikalafeng, the Founder and Chairman of Brand Africa, spoke to the diversity and complexity of the Kenyan market, highlighting the strengths of local brands to drive not just the economy but also the identity of the country.

Gina Din, Founder and Chairman of the Gina Din Group, echoed similar sentiments while celebrating Kenyan brands such as Safaricom, Equity, and Tusker, saying they have become part of those shaping the identity of the continent and rewriting the global narrative about Africa.

The Chairman of NSE, Kiprono Kittony, congratulated the top brands as an asset to the economy of Kenya and invited more of the trusted brands to the Nairobi Security Exchange.