Equity Bank has been awarded Best Regional Bank in East Africa at the prestigious 2025 African Banker Awards, hosted in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
This accolade recognises the bank’s outstanding contribution to expanding access to financial services, empowering communities, and driving sustainable economic growth across East Africa.
The annual African Banker Awards, now in their 19th edition, celebrate excellence and innovation in Africa’s banking and financial sector. Organised in partnership with the African Development Bank and supported by organisations such as the African Guarantee Fund, the awards honour institutions and individuals who have made a lasting impact on Africa’s financial development.
Equity Bank’s win reflects its continued commitment to inclusive, purpose-driven banking. The Bank has played a critical role in promoting financial inclusion across its six core markets—Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)—and continues to support underserved communities and small businesses through innovative financial products, digitisation, and tailored support.
“This award is a testament to our commitment to delivering transformative financial services that empower individuals, businesses, and communities across East and Central Africa,” said Dr. James Mwangi, Managing Director and CEO of Equity Group. “It validates our regional expansion model and aligns with our Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan, which aims to build inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economies across the continent. By focusing on sectors that drive real economic growth—such as agriculture, manufacturing, MSMEs, health, education, and clean energy—we are helping to unlock Africa’s full potential.”
Under the Group’s Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan, Equity has shifted from a traditional banking model to a development finance approach, using its vast network and capital to enable growth through strategic partnerships, private-sector trade, and investment. The Group has demonstrated how financial institutions can play a key role in socio-economic transformation by not just serving clients, but by actively investing in their success.
Equity’s customer-first, technology-driven model has been key to its growth and reputation. With a customer base of over 22 million across the continent, the bank has embraced digital platforms and alternative channels to make banking more accessible. Its expansive network includes 402 branches, nearly 86,000 agents, over 1.1 million Pay with Equity (PWE) merchants, and a fast-growing digital banking platform that complements physical infrastructure with mobile and online banking solutions.
Omar Ben Yedder, Chair of the African Banker Awards Committee, praised Equity’s continued leadership:
“Thomas Sankara once said, ‘The ones who feed you, rule you.’ In today’s economy, we might say, ‘The ones who finance you, empower you.’ Equity Bank exemplifies this belief. It has led the way in democratising access to finance and continues to serve as a catalyst for Africa’s development by empowering entrepreneurs and supporting national economic priorities.”
Equity’s award win also speaks to the growing importance of regional banks in shaping Africa’s financial future. As international banks scale back their presence, institutions like Equity have stepped up, leveraging local expertise and strong community ties to offer tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of African markets.
Dr. Mwangi added, “This recognition reflects the dedication of our teams and the trust of our customers across East Africa. Our focus remains on empowering people through inclusive finance and building a future where everyone has the tools to thrive. We are committed to creating shared prosperity and supporting the long-term development goals of the countries we serve.”
Beyond banking, Equity Group Holdings Plc is a diversified financial services provider with subsidiaries in investment banking, insurance, telecoms, fintech, and social impact investing. The Group is listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, the Uganda Securities Exchange, and the Rwanda Stock Exchange.
With an asset base of USD 13.5 billion and a market capitalisation of USD 1.37 billion, Equity is the largest integrated financial services firm in East and Central Africa. The bank was also recently named the Second Strongest Financial Brand on Earth by Brand Finance in 2024, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 92.5 out of 100 and a top-tier AAA+ rating—underscoring its strong performance, resilient business model, and world-class brand value.
For more information about the African Banker Awards, visit www.AfricanBankerAwards.com.
