Equity Bank has been recognized as the Best Regional Bank in East Africa at the 2025 African Banker Awards, held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. This prestigious accolade underscores the Bank’s pivotal role in driving financial inclusion, empowering communities, and advancing sustainable development across the region.

In a statement following the award, Equity Bank attributed the win to its purpose-led approach, commitment to customer-centric innovation, and strong support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—all of which have shaped its impactful presence in East and Central Africa.

Dr. James Mwangi, Managing Director and CEO of Equity Group, welcomed the recognition, stating:

“This award is a testament to our commitment to delivering transformative financial services that empower individuals, businesses, and communities across East and Central Africa. It validates our regional expansion model and aligns with our Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan.”

The Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan is Equity’s strategic blueprint aimed at fostering inclusive and sustainable growth by investing in sectors that drive development, including agriculture, manufacturing, MSMEs, health, education, and clean energy.

Now in its 19th year, the African Banker Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in African banking, with support from the African Development Bank and other partners like the African Guarantee Fund. This year’s ceremony highlighted the growing influence of African-owned financial institutions in shaping the continent’s economic future.

Omar Ben Yedder, Chair of the Awards Committee, emphasized the sector’s importance:

“Strong African-owned banks are critical to scaling development, and banks like Equity are at the forefront of that mission.”

Operating in six markets—Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)—and with a representative office in Ethiopia, Equity Group serves over 22 million customers. Its integrated financial services continue to power regional transformation and shared prosperity, reinforcing its position as a leading force in Africa’s financial sector.