SBM Bank Kenya has financed a Sh573 million fleet expansion for Beyond Continents Logistics Limited, enabling the company to acquire 50 heavy-duty trucks as demand for regional cargo transport and supply-chain services continues to shape East African trade.
The financing has supported the purchase of 50 Shacman prime movers fitted with Bhachu trailers. The additional vehicles are expected to strengthen the logistics company’s capacity to move goods across borders and serve customers operating in regional markets.
SBM Bank Kenya General Manager for Trade and Transactional Banking Dennis Nyakundi said the financing facility offers flexible repayment terms and up to 100% financing for new vehicles.
Vehicle financing is an important consideration for logistics businesses because acquiring heavy-duty trucks requires significant upfront capital. Access to structured financing can allow operators to expand their fleets without having to fund the full purchase cost immediately from their own cash reserves.
For a company involved in cross-border transport, a larger fleet can provide additional capacity to serve clients, move more cargo and respond to changing shipment schedules. The benefits, however, depend on factors such as vehicle utilisation, fuel costs, maintenance expenses, driver availability and demand for transport services.
The expansion comes as businesses across East Africa seek to strengthen regional supply chains and improve the movement of goods between markets. Logistics companies play a central role in connecting manufacturers, traders, wholesalers and retailers, particularly where cargo must cross national borders.
Regional trade initiatives, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), are intended to create wider opportunities for businesses by reducing trade barriers and supporting commerce across participating African economies. Efficient transport services are among the practical requirements for businesses seeking to take advantage of those opportunities.
For logistics operators, investment in fleet capacity must be matched by reliable routes, predictable border procedures and sustainable operating costs. Financing can help address the capital requirement, but companies must still manage the commercial risks associated with running heavy-duty vehicles.
The Sh573 million facility highlights the role banks can play in supporting transport infrastructure and business expansion through asset financing. It also reflects the connection between access to credit and the ability of logistics firms to scale their operations.
The performance of the expanded fleet will depend on Beyond Continents Logistics’ ability to secure cargo contracts, manage operating costs and maintain reliable service as regional trade develops.
