NCBA Group PLC has reported a profit after tax of KES 23.4 billion for the full year 2025, marking a 7.0 percent increase compared to KES 21.9 billion recorded in 2024
The strong financial performance has translated into an enhanced dividend payout of KES 11.7 billion, up from KES 9.1 billion the previous year, underscoring the Group’s commitment to delivering attractive shareholder returns.
Profit before tax rose by 10.9 percent to KES 27.9 billion, while operating income increased by 17.0 percent to KES 73.3 billion. Operating expenses also grew by 17.0 percent to KES 37.5 billion, reflecting continued investment in expansion and digital transformation.
However, provisions for credit losses surged by 46.3 percent to KES 8.0 billion, highlighting a cautious stance amid evolving macroeconomic conditions.
The Group’s balance sheet remained strong, with total assets rising by 8.0 percent to KES 716 billion and customer deposits increasing by 6.0 percent to KES 532 billion.
Digital lending continued to be a key growth driver, with loans disbursed hitting KES 1.4 trillion, a 33 percent increase year-on-year, reinforcing NCBA’s leadership in digital financial services across Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Board has recommended a final dividend of KES 7.10 per share for 2025.
📊 Strategy Milestone Achieved
Commenting on the results, Group Managing Director John Gachora said the performance marks a strong close to the bank’s 2020–2025 strategic cycle.
“The 2025 outcomes are a great milestone to close out our 2020–2025 strategy. Disciplined execution and diversification have delivered a more robust institution with strong momentum,” he said.
Over the five-year period, NCBA focused on strengthening its brand, scaling retail banking, maintaining leadership in corporate banking and asset finance, advancing digital transformation, and building a high-performance culture.
The bank doubled its customer base, expanded its branch network to 123, and maintained over 30 percent market share in asset finance. Its digital business now contributes 32 percent of total profitability.
🌍 Sustainability and Social Impact
Through its “Change The Story” sustainability strategy launched in 2023, NCBA has made notable progress, including mobilizing KES 9.5 billion in green financing and impacting over 1.2 million livelihoods.
The Group has also invested heavily in community initiatives, including sports and the creative economy. Its golf development program has supported over 400 tournaments and nurtured emerging talent, while partnerships in the creative sector have empowered young artists through funding and mentorship.
🏦 Subsidiary Performance
Kenya remained the Group’s primary profit driver, contributing 82 percent of profit before tax at KES 22.9 billion. Regional subsidiaries delivered strong growth, contributing KES 3.6 billion, while non-banking units such as investment banking and insurance contributed KES 1.9 billion.
🚀 Launch of 2026–2030 Ubuntu Strategy
Building on its momentum, NCBA has unveiled its new five-year “Ubuntu Strategy” anchored on the purpose: “Banking on Belief – Empowering Ambitions.”
The strategy will focus on:
- Strengthening core banking operations
- Scaling high-growth segments such as SME, retail, and insurance
- Expanding into new markets and sectors
- Building a future-ready, purpose-driven organization
🤝 Nedbank Deal to Accelerate Growth
NCBA also highlighted opportunities arising from the proposed acquisition of a 66 percent stake by Nedbank, which is expected to enhance capital strength, unlock liquidity, and provide access to global markets.
Customers are set to benefit from expanded product offerings and international banking capabilities across key financial hubs including London, Dubai, and Jersey.
📌 Outlook
Gachora expressed optimism about the future, noting that the new strategy and potential partnership will accelerate growth ambitions.
“We are proud of the progress we have made and excited about the Ubuntu strategy. The proposed transaction will accelerate our ambitions as we shape the next chapter of our organization.”
