The proposed acquisition of a 66% stake in NCBA by South Africa’s Nedbank marks a major turning point for the Kenyan financial sector. According to John Gachora, the Managing Director of NCBA, this deal is a strategic move that promises to accelerate the bank’s long-term ambitions and create significant value for all stakeholders involved.
Gachora emphasized that the partnership is expected to unlock much-needed liquidity and provide a more robust capital foundation, which will fuel NCBA’s regional expansion efforts. By integrating with a major international player like Nedbank, the bank stands to diversify its risk profile beyond the East African market, ensuring more sustainable returns for shareholders.
This news follows a solid year of growth for NCBA. In its 2025 financial report, the bank announced a net profit after tax of KES 12.3 billion, an 8% increase from the previous year. With total assets now reaching KES 720 billion, the institution has shown steady performance across both its retail and corporate divisions, supported by a healthy rise in earnings per share to KES 4.50.
For the average customer, the acquisition is set to open doors to a wider array of financial products. Clients will gain access to Nedbank’s international distribution network, which spans key financial hubs including London, the Isle of Man, Jersey, and Dubai. This global reach will be particularly beneficial for corporate clients looking for larger-ticket funding solutions.
Looking toward the future, Gachora expressed pride in the bank’s current progress under its “Ubuntu” strategy. He credited the organization’s success to the continued trust of customers, staff, and regulators. As the bank prepares to move into this next chapter, the deal underscores a broader trend of international banks showing increased interest in East Africa’s dynamic and rapidly evolving financial landscape.
