Kenya banks Q1 2026 results are in, and the picture is one of resilience and growth. Equity Group led the pack with a 24% jump in profits to KSh 19.1 billion, crossing the KSh 2 trillion mark in total assets, while KCB and NCBA also delivered steady gains reinforcing why the banking sector remains a core focus for NSE investors.
Equity Group Reaffirms Banking Sector Leadership in Q1’2026
It was a busy week in Kenya’s banking sector as listed banks rushed to release their Q1’2026 financial results. Equity Group, under Dr. James Mwangi, reaffirmed its position as the most profitable bank in the region after reporting a 24% increase in profits to Ksh 19.1 billion. The growth was largely driven by strong net interest income and expansion in non-funded income streams.
KCB Group also delivered strong results after announcing Ksh 24.4 billion in pre-tax profit for Q1’2026, representing a 15.3% increase compared to the same period last year.
Despite their size and profitability, both Equity and KCB continue to attract attention from investors who believe the counters remain relatively undervalued at the NSE. Together, the two lenders command balance sheets exceeding Ksh 4 trillion while continuing to expand through regional diversification and digital banking channels.
NCBA Delivers Steady Growth Q1 2026
NCBA Group posted a 9% growth in profit after tax to Ksh 6.0 billion, while operating income rose by 15%.
The bank continues to show strong momentum in deposits, assets, and digital banking activity, with digital channels now accounting for the majority of customer transactions.
However, credit loss provisions rose by 56%, reflecting a more cautious lending environment across the sector. Even so, strong capital levels and a Return on Average Equity of 18.4% indicate that the bank remains resilient and well-positioned as it expands deeper into SME banking, asset finance, and wealth management.
I&M Bank’s MTN Offer Oversubscribed
I&M Bank’s MTN offer recorded a strong market outcome, with the issuance oversubscribed by 232.26%, attracting applications worth Ksh 23.23 billion against a target of Ksh 10 billion. Following the strong demand, a Ksh 3 billion green-shoe option was exercised, bringing the total Tranche 1 allocation to Ksh 13 billion.
Dividend Season
It was a rewarding week for investors as several listed banks distributed dividends to shareholders.
Investors who accumulated shares ahead of book closure dates continued to benefit from steady income payouts, reinforcing the banking sector’s position as one of the strongest dividend-paying segments at the NSE.
Treasury Bills Auction Records Strong Demand
Kenya’s latest Treasury bills auction recorded healthy demand, with the Central Bank accepting Ksh 26.1 billion against an offer of Ksh 24 billion.
Investor appetite remained strongest on the 91-day paper, while longer tenors experienced relatively softer demand despite attractive yields.
The weighted average interest rates settled at:
- 91-day: 8.39%
- 182-day: 8.21%
- 364-day: 8.59%
The results suggest investors remain selective in positioning within the fixed income market.
Safaricom Opens Youth Innovation Partnership Opportunities
Safaricom announced the launch of its Youth Proposition Partnership EOI under the #SafaricomPopoteUlipo initiative.
The programme invites innovators, partners, and solution providers to collaborate on youth-focused solutions aimed at empowering young people through technology and innovation. You can apply here: https://www.safaricom.co.ke/suppliers/tenders
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Pushes for Global Major Status
The 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon officially entered its “Evaluation Year” as it seeks recognition as the 8th Abbott World Marathon Major.
More than 27,000 runners from over 100 countries are expected to participate. SanlamAllianz is supporting the initiative through its “African Champions Unite” campaign aimed at elevating African athletes on the global stage.
From Abojani
Knowledge Series X-Space General Insurance
One of the highlights of the week for us was the #KnowledgeSeries X-Space held in partnership with Equity Bank on matters General Insurance.
The conversation focused on financial protection, risk management, and why insurance remains an important component of long-term financial planning.
Catch the recording here: https://x.com/i/spaces/1DGleEgnWWVJL?s=20
Finance for Non-Finance Managers Workshop Set for May 30th
We will be ending the month with our Finance for Non-Finance Managers & Professionals Workshop on Saturday, 30th May 2026.
The workshop is designed for professionals, entrepreneurs, and managers seeking to better understand financial statements, business performance, and financial decision-making.
Registration Ongoing for the 78th Abojani Masterclass
Registration for the 78th Abojani Personal Finance, Saving & Investing Masterclass is still ongoing.
The online programme will run throughout June and will cover practical lessons on personal finance, unit trusts, SACCOs, treasury bills, bonds, and wealth creation strategies.
#Kenya Banks Q1 2026 Results
CEO & Co-Founder, Abojani Investment
Robert Ochieng is a visionary entrepreneur and the co-founder of Abojani Investment, a leading financial education platform in Kenya that has empowered over 20,000 Africans to embark on their investment journeys. As CEO, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to financial literacy, successfully demystifying money and investments and making them accessible and relevant to individuals from all walks of life.
Running Thriving Investment Communities
Robert’s influence extends well beyond Abojani Investment’s core offerings. He has actively fostered a sense of community by running investment forums and groups with a vast following of over 300,000 Africans. These communities provide a safe space for individuals to exchange ideas, share experiences, and support each other on their investment journeys.
Vision for the Future
As co-founder of Abojani Investment, Robert envisions a financially empowered Africa. He strives to expand the reach of his financial education initiatives, enabling millions more to gain the knowledge and confidence needed to achieve their financial goals. His vision is to create a society where every individual has the tools and understanding to build lasting wealth and prosperity.
Professional Background
Robert Ochieng is a highly accomplished CEO at the helm of Abojani Investment, an investment and advisory firm in Kenya. He is a seasoned professional with over 14 years of experience in IT, Finance, and leadership.
His career includes key roles at prominent institutions such as Equity Bank, Gulf African Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) and Airtel.
Robert’s expertise has also been sought after by the National Treasury for consultancy on planning and budgeting systems, showcasing his exceptional knowledge and skills in the field. Passionate about driving meaningful conversations and collaborations between academia, industry, and the public sector, Robert actively engages in research projects focusing on digital transformation within the financial services sector. With his visionary leadership and strategic insights, Robert Ochieng continues to make a significant impact in the business world.
