Absa Bank Kenya PLC has posted a profit after tax of Sh5.3 billion for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, as the lender maintained strong balance sheet growth despite operating in a challenging economic environment.
The bank reported a return on equity of 20.3 percent during the period, underpinned by sustained investment in customer-focused innovation, prudent risk management, and disciplined cost control measures.
Customer deposits rose by 8 percent to Sh399.1 billion, while customer loans and advances stood at Sh303.8 billion, reflecting continued support for households, individuals, and businesses. Total assets increased by 10 percent to Sh571.3 billion, highlighting the lender’s strengthened financial position.
Speaking during the release of the results, Absa Bank Kenya PLC Managing Director and CEO Abdi Mohamed said the bank remained focused on supporting customers through a difficult economic period while positioning the business for long-term sustainability.
“It has been a demanding period for our customers and the broader economy, but our focus has been on standing alongside those we serve. While our performance reflects these pressures, our actions are guided by a long-term view, supporting our customers today while safeguarding the strength of our business for the future,” he said.
Total revenue for the quarter stood at Sh14.7 billion, supported by disciplined management of funding costs amid a lower interest rate environment. Net interest income closed at Sh10.4 billion, while non-interest income reached Sh4.3 billion.
The lender also continued to diversify its revenue streams, with income from subsidiaries growing by 25 percent year-on-year.
In the retail segment, the bank expanded its high-net-worth wealth offering and enhanced its premium card propositions, contributing to its recognition as Best Retail Bank Kenya 2026.
The Business Banking division strengthened support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through initiatives such as the WEZESHA value-chain financing programme, the “Lipa na Absa” digital payments platform, and business credit card solutions. The bank also enhanced its Asset-Based Finance proposition, which was relaunched in April 2026.
Within Corporate Banking, Absa retained a leading position in mergers and acquisitions advisory, ranking first in East Africa by deal value. Its Global Markets business also expanded its product offering through the introduction of new currency pairs and growth in non-funded income streams.
The bank said continued investment in brand and stakeholder initiatives remained central to strengthening customer engagement and market relevance. Key sponsorship platforms included the Magical Kenya Open, Absa Sirikwa Classic, and Absa Kip Keino Classic.
Absa also advanced its sustainability agenda through the Absa Kenya Foundation’s CirculaRising programme, supporting more than 2,000 women- and youth-led MSMEs operating within the circular economy. The initiative is expected to positively impact more than 30,000 livelihoods.
Looking ahead, the lender said it would continue investing in digital transformation, customer experience, and strategic partnerships as it seeks to strengthen operational efficiency and deliver sustainable growth.
“We continue to bring our purpose to life through the way we serve our customers and communities. As we look ahead, we are accelerating investments in digital capabilities, customer experience, and strategic partnerships to build a more agile, efficient, and future-ready organisation,” Mr Mohamed said.
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