Equity emerged as a top performer at the 20th edition of the Think Business Banking Awards 2025, securing 16 awards across key categories that recognize excellence in innovation, financial literacy, SME support, and sustainability. The Bank claimed the top position in nine categories, including Best in SME Banking, Agriculture Financing, Asset Financing, Mortgage Financing, Financial Literacy Programs, Special Judges Award for Product Innovation, Sustainable Corporate Social Responsibility, Microfinance, and Agency Banking.
Out of a competitive field of prominent Kenyan banks and microfinance institutions, Equity stood out for its widespread efforts to empower communities. These include initiatives such as financial literacy and entrepreneurship training, and digital literacy programs tailored for individuals and MSMEs, alongside the rollout of impactful social responsibility programs.
The Bank also received recognition as the first runner-up in Product Marketing and second runner-up in Mobile Banking, Retail Banking, Trade Financing, Bank with the Lowest Tariff, and Best Bank in Tier 1, affirming its all-around strength and consistent performance.
The Think Business Banking Awards are celebrated for recognizing institutions that demonstrate excellence through a blend of quantitative and qualitative performance metrics, customer value creation, and sustainable impact. This year’s theme, “Educate, Empower, Enrich: The Financial Literacy Promise,” echoed Equity’s ongoing commitment to equipping individuals and businesses with the knowledge and tools to build financial resilience and economic prosperity.
In addition to institutional accolades, Equity Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr. James Mwangi was named CEO of the Year, honoring visionary leadership that has propelled the Group’s purpose-led strategy and impact-driven approach to banking. This recognition follows his recent honors, the Freedom of the City of London Award and the UNHCR Visionary Award for his commitment to financial inclusion and transforming displaced communities through access to finance.
In accepting the CEO of the Year award, Dr. Mwangi stated, “I am truly honored to be named CEO of the Year, and I accept this recognition on behalf of the entire Equity team. It is their unwavering commitment, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence that continue to drive our impact and success. The awards we’ve received reflect not only our performance but our purpose: to create transformative financial solutions that empower individuals, businesses, and communities.
Equity has long been the home of MSMEs, and being recognized as the Best Bank in SME Banking is a powerful affirmation of our continued investment in this vital sector. We remain committed to walking alongside entrepreneurs, small and large, by providing the tools, knowledge, and financing they need to thrive. At Equity, we believe that financial inclusion is not just a service; it is a catalyst for economic and social progress across Africa.”
The annual Think Business Banking Awards is renowned for acknowledging top banks across the country based on a comprehensive analysis of institutional value, quantitative and qualitative metrics, customer value, and sustainable excellence.
Equity Bank remains resolute in its commitment to driving positive societal transformation and implementing impactful operational policies that create value for its communities and stakeholders. By prioritizing sustainability and customer-centricity, the bank consistently strives to redefine banking in Kenya.
