Equity Group has cemented its position as a continental leader in digital innovation, scooping a prestigious award for its advancements in financial technology at a ceremony in Naivasha. The bank won the 2025 CIO100 Africa Award in the PlusOne Banking Sector category, an honour recognizing the continent's 100 most progressive organizations in IT leadership.

For millions of Kenyans, this recognition is more than just a corporate trophy. It signals a fundamental shift in banking, promising easier access to loans, more secure transactions, and the convenience of managing finances without ever stepping into a branch. This shift is critical in a nation where digital and mobile-first solutions are increasingly defining the economy.

The award was presented at the annual CIO100 Symposium, which this year focused on the theme “Innovation at Scale: Driving Business Growth Through IT Leadership.” The competition was fierce, with a record 1,200 applications submitted from enterprises and government agencies across Africa.

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Equity was singled out for its strategic and heavy investment in modernizing its technological backbone. The judges highlighted several key areas where the bank excelled:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Integrating AI to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen fraud detection systems.
• Digital Banking Capacity: Expanding its suite of digital products, from the Equity Mobile App to online banking platforms that offer services from account opening to loan applications.
• Data Governance: Improving how customer data is managed and secured, a crucial element in building trust in digital platforms.
• Cybersecurity Modernization: Upgrading security systems to protect customers from the growing threat of financial fraud.

Equity Group CEO, Dr. James Mwangi, noted that the award reflects a long-term strategy. “This award is a testament to the synergy between vision, innovation, and execution,” he stated. He emphasized that the bank's digital-first approach is aimed at empowering customers and expanding financial inclusion. “We are not just leveraging technology to improve banking; we are reimagining what is possible for Africa,” Dr. Mwangi added.

Receiving the award on behalf of the bank, Chief Information Officer Michael Kwofie credited the collective effort of teams across Equity's markets. “We are grateful for this recognition and look forward to achieving even more in the coming years,” Kwofie remarked.

The win underscores a broader trend in Kenya's financial sector, where technology is no longer a back-office function but the primary driver of growth and customer experience. As banking becomes increasingly digital, this award positions Equity at the forefront of shaping its future.