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Equity Group Holdings Plc posted a record FY2025 profit, with its Ugandan subsidiary emerging as one of the fastest-growing units across the region.
Profit after tax in Uganda surged 500% to KSh3.6b (about sh100.8b), the cross-listed Group on the Uganda Securities Exchange, said in a statement.
Across the group, profit after tax rose 55% to KSh75.5b (about sh2.11 trillion), lifted by stronger regional contributions and improved efficiency.
The Democratic Republic of Congo delivered a 58% rise in profit to KSh24.7b (about sh691.6b), while Tanzania grew 125% to KSh2.7b (about sh75.6b). Rwanda posted KSh5.4b (about sh151.2b) in profit, supported by steady asset and loan growth.
Kenya, still the group’s largest market, recorded a 63% increase in profit to KSh39.2b (about sh1.10 trillion).
Group-wide, total income rose 12% to KSh217.7b (about sh6.10 trillion), driven by a 17% increase in net interest income and a 7% rise in non-funded income.
The balance sheet expanded 9% to KSh1.97 trillion (about sh55.2 trillion), with customer deposits climbing to KSh1.46 trillion (about sh40.9 trillion). Net loans grew 8% to KSh882.5b (about sh24.7 trillion).
The cost-to-income ratio dropped to 51.0% from 58.2%, helped by a shift to digital banking. Over 98% of transactions were conducted outside branches, with 88.4% processed through digital channels.
The board proposed a dividend of KSh5.75 per share, up from KSh4.25, translating to a total payout of KSh21.7b (about sh607.6b).
“Our focus is to build a future-ready institution that is scalable, secure and impact-led. Through our Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan, we are investing in next-generation digital and AI-enabled capabilities that enhance customer experience, strengthen risk management and lower the cost-to-serve, while extending access to affordable credit, insurance and investment solutions,” James Mwangi, the Group chief executive, said.
“As we progress toward our 2030 ambitions, we are evolving beyond traditional banking into a Transformation Finance Institution that mobilises capital, connects ecosystems and accelerates inclusive, sustainable prosperity across Africa.”