BUSINESS

Board Approves Dividend Payout as Absa Bank Kenya Profit Hits Ksh10.5B

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Absa Bank Kenya
Absa Bank Kenya Interim CEO, Mr Yusuf Omari, during the release of the half year 2026 financial results. (Photo: Courtesy)
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Absa Bank Kenya reported a profit after tax of Ksh10.5 billion for the period ended 30th June, 2026, achieving a return on equity of 21.7%. The board of directors approved an interim dividend of Ksh0.5 per share.

This performance reflects the Absa Bank’s success in the execution of its strategy focused on supporting customers growth ambitions. During the period, customer assets increased by 8% to Ksh 329.9 billion as Absa Bank Kenya expanded financing to critical sectors of the economy while continuing to empower individuals and businesses to realise their goals.

Customer deposits rose to Ksh 380.7 billion, reflecting growing customer confidence, expanded financial access, and the provision of tailored banking solutions. Total assets grew to Ksh 558.1 billion, highlighting its robust balance sheet and sustained financial strength.

“While the dynamic operating environment exerted pressure on performance, Absa Bank Kenya recorded strong momentum in the second quarter,” Absa Bank Kenya Interim Managing Director and CEO, Yusuf Omari, said. “This reflects our disciplined execution, continued support for customers through relevant financial and non-financial solutions, and ongoing investment in the long-term resilience and sustainability of the business.”

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During the period under review, Absa Bank Kenya recorded total revenue of Ksh 29.3 billion, supported by a growing balance sheet and disciplined management of cost of funds amid a lower interest rate environment. Against a backdrop of evolving market dynamics, net interest income stood at Ksh 21.1 billion, while non-interest income totalled Ksh 8.2 billion for the period.

Absa Bank Kenya also continued to advance its revenue diversification strategy, with income from subsidiaries increasing by 20% year-on-year. This growth reflects the expanding contribution of these businesses, including asset management, custody services, and bancassurance, further enhancing the resilience and sustainability of the Bank’s overall earnings.

Performance highlights:

  • Profit before tax of Ksh 10.5 billion for the period ended 30 June 2026
  • Customer assets grew by 8% to Ksh 329.9 billion
  • Customer deposits increased by 5% to Ksh 380.7 billion
  • Return on equity of 21.7%, one of the leading across the industry
  • Capital and liquidity ratios remained strong, with capital adequacy at 19.4% and liquidity reserves at 42.7%

“Our strategy remains anchored on delivering sustainable, long-term growth while enhancing customer experience across all touchpoints. In line with our purpose of Empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together… one story at a time, we have strengthened our commitment to financial inclusion in the period, providing tailored solutions that support Kenyans in realising their homeownership, vehicle and business asset financing needs, and entrepreneurial aspirations,” said Mr. Omari.

Notably, the Bank launched a developer-led home financing solution featuring a market-leading interest rate of 8.9% per annum and financing of up to 105% for qualifying homebuyers. The Bank also introduced the KES 1 billion Zinduka Graduate Enterprise Programme to support youth entrepreneurship and expand access to affordable, sustainable finance for this important client segment.

In addition, the Bank enhanced its asset financing proposition, committing Ksh 100 billion over the next three years to support businesses and individuals across key sectors of the economy, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, infrastructure, trade, and logistics. The proposition provides up to 100% financing for targeted assets, enabling customers to accelerate investment, growth, and productivity.

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Written by
BT Correspondent

editor [at] businesstoday.co.ke

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