Equity Group shareholders approve 35.5% dividend rise to Rwf246bn, insurance expansion

Equity Group Holdings Plc shareholders have approved a Ksh21.7 billion dividend (approx. Rwf246 billion) for the financial year ended December 31, 2025, marking a 35.5 per cent increase from the Ksh16.04 billion paid in the previous year. They also backed plans to expand the Group’s insurance operations in Kenya and the DR Congo, according to a statement from the Group. The resolutions were passed during the company’s 22nd Annual General Meeting (AGM), held virtually on June 24, 2026. Shareholders approved a first and final dividend of Ksh5.75 per share, up from Ksh4.25 per share in the 2024 financial year, with payment scheduled on or about June 30, 2026, to shareholders registered by close of business on May 22, 2026. At the same meeting, shareholders adopted the Group’s audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025, together with reports from the board and auditors, reflecting continued confidence in the Group’s performance and long-term strategy. The meeting, which brought together investors electronically, reflected continued confidence in the Group’s performance and long-term strategy. Insurance expansion into Kenya and DRC Shareholders also approved proposals to establish three new insurance subsidiaries under Equity Group Insurance Holdings Limited, subject to regulatory approvals. The plan includes a microinsurance company in Kenya with a capital base of Ksh192 million, as well as two subsidiaries in the DR Congo – a life insurance company with $12 million capital and a general insurance company with $13.37 million capital. The board was authorised to proceed with implementation. Leadership highlights growth strategy Equity Group Chairman Prof. Isaac Macharia said the resolutions underscore strong shareholder confidence in the Group’s governance framework and its long-term strategy under the Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP). “The approvals received today reflect our shareholders’ confidence in Equity’s strategy and oversight. We remain committed to strong governance, prudent stewardship, and delivering sustainable value; by building an institution that expands opportunities for our customers and strengthens resilience across our markets,” he said. Group Managing Director and CEO Dr. James Mwangi said the insurance expansion will strengthen its ability to deliver integrated financial services across the region. “Equity continues to pursue growth anchored on innovation, regional presence, and solutions that protect and advance livelihoods,” he stated. “The approvals to expand our insurance footprint strengthen our ability to offer more holistic financial services that help customers and communities manage risk, build resilience, and plan confidently for the future.” Board and governance approvals Shareholders approved all board resolutions presented at the meeting, including the re-election of Prof. Isaac Macharia, Mr. Jonas Mushosho, Dr. Evanson Baiya, and Mrs. Farida Khambata as directors. They also approved the appointment of Dr. Eliane Ubalijoro as a director, subject to regulatory clearance. The AGM further approved the appointment of Ernst & Young as external auditors until the next annual general meeting. Outlook Looking ahead, Equity Group said it remains focused on deepening financial inclusion, strengthening governance, and supporting households and businesses across the region through customer-focused financial solutions. About Equity Group Holdings Plc. Equity Group Holdings Plc. is a Pan-African financial services holding company listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, Uganda Securities Exchange, and Rwanda Stock Exchange. It operates banking subsidiaries in Kenya, DR Congo, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, and a representative office in Ethiopia, alongside businesses in insurance, fintech, telecom, investment banking, and social impact through Equity Group Foundation. The Group has a market capitalisation of $2 billion, an asset base of $15.7 billion, and serves 22.7 million customers through 409 branches, 86,910 agents, over 1.4 million Pay with Equity merchants, 39,296 Point-of-Sale (POS) merchants, 881 ATMs and an extensive adoption of digital banking channel. Its strong liquidity buffers, resilient funding profile, established domestic presence, and extensive use of digital and alternative distribution channels have earned significant recognition. In 2026, it was named Africa’s Strongest Banking Brand by Brand Finance, with a Brand Strength Index of 93.9 and an AAA+ rating, ranking among the top 10 strongest banking brands globally. It was also recognised as a Superbrand in East Africa (2024–2026).

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Equity Group shareholders approve 35.5% dividend rise to Rwf246bn, insurance expansion