Equity Group Profit After Tax Rises 24% in Q1 2026

Equity Group has kicked off 2026 on a strong note, reporting a 24% year-on-year rise in Profit After Tax for the first quarter, signalling sustained growth and the success of its long-term transformation strategy.

The regional financial services giant posted a profit after tax of Ksh 19.1 billion in Q1 2026, up from Ksh 15.4 billion recorded during the same period last year. The Group’s balance sheet also expanded by 16% to reach Ksh 2.04 trillion. Growth was largely supported by increased customer confidence and economic activity across its markets. Customer deposits rose by 13%, while net loans increased by 9%, reflecting stronger banking activity and continued trust in the institution.

Equity Group said its performance reflects years of deliberate restructuring and investment in technology. The Group has strengthened its regional footprint while adopting digital and AI-powered systems aimed at improving efficiency and building a more resilient institution.

“Our Q1 performance reflects a multi-year transformation agenda anchored on resilience, diversification and technology,” Equity Group said.

Regional operations continued to play a major role in the Group’s earnings, contributing 50% of banking profitability and 52% of total banking assets. Among the standout performers were Equity Bank Tanzania, which posted 150% growth in Profit After Tax, followed by Equity Bank Rwanda at 36% and Equity Bank DRC at 32%.

Beyond banking, Equity Insurance Group also maintained strong momentum. Gross written premiums climbed by 30% to Ksh 4.5 billion, while Profit Before Tax rose by 53% to Ksh 0.64 billion. The Group also highlighted the continued impact of the Equity Group Foundation. Through education, leadership and empowerment programmes, the Foundation currently supports 12,844 scholars and recently secured 91 international university admissions valued at more than USD 18.6 million.

“To date, Wings to Fly and Elimu scholarship programmes have benefited thousands of young people while the Equity Leaders Program continues to shape Africa’s future workforce,” the Group noted.

The latest results underline Equity’s ambition to position itself as a technology-led Pan-African financial services powerhouse, balancing commercial growth with regional expansion, innovation, and measurable social impact across the African markets where it operates today successfully.