Equity Bank Dominates Think Business Banking Awards

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Equity Bank emerged as a shining star at the 20th Edition of the Think Business Banking Awards, securing the Best Bank in Trade Finance award.

This recognition highlights Equity Bank’s dedication to providing top-tier trade finance solutions that enhance accessibility to financial services and ultimately drive sustainable economic growth across the continent.

The Bank also emerged victorious in a total of nine categories. Accolades were received in Agency Banking, Product Marketing for their “Kusave Ni Rahisi Na Equity” campaign, Asset Finance, Agriculture & Livestock Financing, Retail Banking, Corporate Banking, and Microfinance.

Furthermore, Equity Bank was named the Best Commercial Bank in Microfinance, underlining its commitment to financial inclusion for all.

The Bank was further recognized with the Special Judges Award for Product Innovation, specifically commending the Equity Group Foundation (EGF) – Water Financing initiative, a prime example of Equity Bank’s commitment to developing sustainable financial solutions.

Equity Bank’s achievements transcended the award ceremony itself. The Bank was distinguished as a Green Bank in Kenya, a recognition that highlights its dedication to environmentally sustainable practices.

Additionally, Equity Bank was included in the prestigious Roll of Class Acts of 20 Years. This distinction celebrates institutions that have consistently delivered exceptional value and maintained high performance over the past two decades.

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The Think Business Banking Awards 2024, themed “Making the Transition towards Green Banking,” emphasized the growing importance of ethical banking practices, environmental protection, and social responsibility within the financial sector. The awards aim to inspire banks to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to environmental conservation efforts.

Mr Ochieng Oloo, Founder and CEO of Think Business, emphasized the critical role of green banking in today’s financial landscape. He highlighted that green banks not only prioritize financing environmentally friendly projects but also actively advocate for reducing carbon footprints through initiatives like paperless transactions and online banking solutions.

Mr. Oloo further noted the success of innovative green finance products, like the Hustler Fund and M-Pesa-based solutions, as a wake-up call for traditional banks. These advancements signal the vast opportunities presented by the Kenyan government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Banking Awards, Mr. Oloo reiterated the program’s core objective: “Our goal is to drive the banking sector towards long-term sustainable, ethical and environmentally friendly policies and practices.

These awards are designed to spur competition, innovation, prudence and stability in the banking industry, showcasing the best performers and enabling the public to make informed banking decisions.”

While Equity Bank stood out, the ceremony acknowledged other industry leaders. I&M Group PLC was recognized as the best customer-centric bank, and HFC Bank was awarded for excellence in mortgage finance.

KCB Bank distinguished itself as the best bank in digital banking, while CitiBank NA took home the top prize for Best Bank in Kenya. CitiBank also secured recognition in internet banking, corporate banking, and product innovation, among other categories.

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A significant highlight of the event was the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Mr. Richard Etemesi, Chairman of Standard Chartered Bank. Mr. Etemesi’s remarkable 24-year tenure at Standard Chartered, encompassing leadership roles across Kenya, Singapore, Uganda, Zambia, and the UK, serves as a testament to his exceptional contributions to the industry.

Standard Chartered Bank CEO, Mr Kariuki Ngugi, was recognized as the Chief Executive Officer of the year, while Lucy Kagia received the award for outstanding young banker of the year.

For enquiries, customers can reach the 24/7 equity bank customer care through the equity bank contact 0763 000 000. For bill payments and account top-ups, the equity bank paybill number (247247) can be used through M-Pesa.

Additionally, the equity bank ussd code *247# allows customers to check their account balance, send and receive money, make payments, and access other essential functionalities directly from their mobile phones. For international transactions, the equity bank swift code (EQBLKENAXXX) facilitates secure communication between financial institutions.