NAIROBI, Kenya— Absa Bank Kenya has reported a 9pc growth in profit after tax to Sh11.7 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2025, delivering a return on equity of 26.5pc.
The lender says its revenue for the period stood at Sh31.5 billion, a 1.2pc drop from last year, attributed to lower interest rates, partly offset by improved cost of funds management.
Net interest income fell 2.9pc to Sh22.3 billion, while non-interest income rose 3.3pc to Sh9.1 billion, supported by fees and commissions.
Customer deposits grew 2.3pc to Sh361 billion, but loans and advances declined 3.6pc to Sh305 billion, reflecting macroeconomic pressures.
Total assets increased 10.4pc to KShs 532 billion.
“Our results highlight the resilience of our operations and the relevance of our growth strategy, centred on being the primary partner for our customers,” said its CEO Abdi Mohamed.
“We are unlocking value across both traditional and emerging revenue streams while positioning the business for long-term growth.”
The bank maintained its position in bancassurance, expanded its asset management portfolio to over Sh30 billion, and recorded gains in the remittance market.
It also upgraded digital channels and physical networks while launching products including the Absa Business Credit Card and an expanded Shariah-compliant La Riba offering.
In corporate and investment banking, Absa advised on a Sh2.5 billion rights issue and the dual listing of the Satrix MSCI World ETF, while launching a custody business.
The lender advanced about Sh20 billion in sustainable finance during the half-year.
On efficiency, 71pc of customer processes are now automated, with 94pc of transactions handled via alternative channels.
Operating costs rose 1% to Sh11.4 billion, improving the cost-to-income ratio to 36pc.
Loan impairment charges dropped 38% to Sh3.2 billion, while capital and liquidity ratios remained above regulatory requirements, at 20.5% and 45.5% respectively.
The board declared an interim dividend of Sh0.20 per share, payable on or about October 15, 2025, to shareholders on record as of September 19, 2025.
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