Performance was supported by growth in digital and non-funded income streams. The asset management business expanded into the top three money market funds in Kenya, while Bancassurance maintained a market-leading position in profitability.

In Business Banking, Absa expanded its Shariah-compliant La Riba offering, marking 20 years of Islamic banking leadership, and advanced SME growth through partnerships, anchor-led ecosystems, and the introduction of the Business Credit Card.

Corporate and Investment Banking delivered high-impact execution, leading to Kshs. 16 billion Medium Term Note and a US$156 million solar securitisation, while strengthening transactional banking and digital payments. Assets under custody exceeded KShs. 69 billion, and the Global Markets business achieved a 15% market share in foreign exchange revenues, supported by diversified income streams and the dual listing of the Satrix MSCI World ETF on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.

Absa Bank Kenya’s performance continues to be underpinned by a focus on sustainable value creation, supported by disciplined execution and strong enabling capabilities. The Bank delivered a return on equity of 22.8%, reflecting resilient profitability and effective capital deployment.

Investment in technology and operational efficiency remains a key enabler of this performance. Absa has continued to digitise and automate its customer journeys, with 71% of customer processes digitised and 94% of transactions conducted through alternative channels. Alongside the modernisation of the branch banking experience, these investments have delivered measurable efficiency gains, contributing to a 5% reduction in total costs and an improved cost-to-income ratio of 36.5%, reflecting a disciplined approach to scale, productivity, and service excellence.

The Bank’s sustainability agenda is further anchored in prudent risk management and balance sheet strength, enabling resilience in a dynamic operating environment. Impairment declined by 32% to KShs. 6.2 billion, supported by healthy portfolio quality and robust coverage levels. Capital and liquidity positions remained well above regulatory thresholds, with a total capital adequacy ratio of 21.0% and a liquidity reserve ratio of 45.6%, providing the flexibility to support responsible growth and continued investment in people, technology, and the Absa brand.

“Looking ahead, Absa is positioned to sustain momentum, underpinned by a strong financial foundation and disciplined execution. We will continue to strengthen our brand, invest in technology that enhances customer experience, and build the leadership and culture needed to deliver consistently in a changing environment, as we create long-term value for our customers, stakeholders, and communities,” said Mr. Mohamed.