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NCBA Profit Hits KSh 23.4 Billion as Dividend Jumps, New Strategy Takes Shape
NCBA Group PLC has reported a net profit of KSh 23.4 billion for the full year 2025, marking a 7% increase from the previous year. The results cap off its five-year strategy and set the stage for a new growth phase.
The performance also comes with a higher reward for shareholders. The Group raised its total dividend payout to KSh 11.7 billion, up from KSh 9.1 billion in 2024. This translates to a final dividend of KSh 7.10 per share.
Profit before tax rose by 10.9% to KSh 27.9 billion, while operating income grew 17% to KSh 73.3 billion. However, the results were tempered by a sharp rise in credit provisions, which increased by 46.3% to KSh 8.0 billion.
Digital Growth and Core Banking Drive Performance
A major driver of growth remains digital lending.
NCBA disbursed KSh 1.4 trillion in digital loans during the year, a 33% increase. This cements its position as a leading digital lender in the region.
Customer deposits rose by 6% to KSh 532 billion, while total assets grew 8% to KSh 716 billion. At the same time, the Group maintained a strong balance between retail and corporate banking.
Digital business is now a key earnings contributor. It accounts for 32% of Group profitability, with Profit Before Tax reaching KSh 9.0 billion.
Group Managing Director John Gachora said the results reflect consistent execution over the past five years.
“The outcomes mark a strong close to our 2020–2025 strategy. We have built a more diversified and resilient institution with clear momentum going forward,” he said.
Strategy Execution Strengthens Market Position
Over the past five years, NCBA has focused on scaling its retail and corporate banking franchises.
Its branch network expanded to 123 locations, up from 89 in 2020. At the same time, the customer base doubled, supported by digital channels and targeted campaigns.
The Group has also maintained a dominant position in asset finance, holding over 30% market share. Meanwhile, its corporate banking arm continues to benefit from a strong deposit base and sector-focused approach.
Innovation has played a central role. Products such as NCBA ConnectPlus and Carduka have driven adoption, with millions of users now onboarded.
NCBA Profit Hits KSh 23.4 Billion as Dividend Jumps, New Strategy Takes Shape
Sustainability and Social Impact Gain Momentum
Beyond financial performance, NCBA is increasingly positioning itself as a purpose-led institution.
Through its “Change The Story” sustainability strategy, the Group has mobilised KSh 9.5 billion in green financing. It has also planted over 1.3 million trees and supported more than 70,000 women and youth through empowerment programmes.
Its broader initiatives have impacted over 1.2 million livelihoods to date.
The bank has also invested in sports and the creative economy. It has committed over KSh 200 million to golf development and continues to support young creatives through platforms such as ELEV8.
Subsidiaries Support Diversified Growth
The Group’s Kenya banking unit remains its main profit engine, contributing 82% of total profit before tax.
Regional subsidiaries are also gaining ground. They generated KSh 3.6 billion in profit, supported by balance sheet growth and lower impairment costs.
Non-banking units—including investment banking, insurance, and leasing—contributed KSh 1.9 billion. Growth in this segment was driven by strong performance in asset management and insurance.
New ‘Ubuntu’ Strategy Signals Next Phase
Looking ahead, NCBA is shifting focus to its new 2026–2030 “Ubuntu” strategy.
The plan is anchored on four pillars: strengthening the core business, scaling high-growth segments, expanding into new markets, and building a future-ready organisation.
The strategy reflects a broader ambition to deepen customer relevance while unlocking new revenue streams.
Nedbank Deal Opens New Opportunities
The proposed acquisition of a 66% stake in NCBA by Nedbank Group could further accelerate this growth.
The deal is expected to strengthen capital, diversify risk, and unlock access to international markets. Customers could also benefit from expanded product offerings and global banking capabilities.
Gachora said the Group remains confident about the future.
“We are proud of the progress we have made and excited about the next phase. The Ubuntu strategy and the proposed partnership position us strongly for long-term growth,” he said.
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